Sulfur Cinquefoil

Potentilla recta

Alternate names
Oldfield Cinquefoil

Weed Description
A perennial with many ascending stems from a crown that may reach 1-2 1/2 ft in height. Primarily found in disturbed areas and along roadsides or railroads throughout N.C., S.C., Va., Tenn., Ky., W. Va.

Leaves
Divided into 7 (sometimes 5, rarely 9) leaflets that arise from a common point on the stem. Lower leaves alternate, petioled. All leaves much longer than wide, widest at the middle and tapering to the base, sparsely hairy, with coarsely toothed margins.

Stems
Erect, unbranched, ascending from a central crown, hairy, reaching 1 to 2 1/2 ft tall.

Flowers
Light yellow (sulfur) with a darker yellow center, 1/2-1 inch wide, with 5 deeply notched petals.

Fruit
An achene.

Identifying Characteristics
The 7 leaflets that most often occur in this species helps to distinguish it from other similar cinquefoils. Oldfield Cinquefoil (Potentilla simplex) and Common Cinquefoil (Potentilla canadensis) both have 5 leaflets, darker yellow flowers, and rhizomes and/or stolons. Additionally, the light yellow flower with 5 petals is a good identifying characteristic of this cinquefoil.

Office of Programs

University of Missouri

Sulfur Cinquefoil

Potentilla recta