Etymology: Potentilla: comes from the Latin diminutive of potens meaning "powerful" in reference to the medicinal properties of some species
Plants: erect, annual to perennial, 1'-3' tall forb; stems very leafy, stout, finely hairy, mostly branched
Leaves: 3-parted, elliptical to widely oval to 3" long, with rounded teeth
Flowers: yellow, 5-parted, 1/3" wide, petals nearly as long as the sepals; inflorescence with many flowers in a tight, branched cluster (cyme); blooms June-Aug.
Fruits: dry seed
Habitat: dry; disturbed sites
Conservation Status: Native

Floristic Rating: Coefficient of Conservatism = 0, Wetland Indicator = FAC USDA Plants Database: Federal Distribution and detailed information including photos Dan Tenaglia's The Missouri Flora: Fabulous photographs; detailed descriptions; color and leave arrangement key. Illinois Wildflowers: Wonderful photographs; detailed descriptions; color and leaf arrangement key