Cleveland’s Cinquefoil
(Potentilla clevelandii)
Cleveland’s Cinquefoil (Potentilla clevelandii)
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Estimated Native Range
Summary
Potentilla clevelandii, commonly known as Cleveland’s Cinquefoil or Indian Chocolate, is a perennial herb native to chaparral, coastal sage scrub, and oak woodlands of the Southwestern United States and Northwestern Mexico. It typically grows at a moderate rate to a height of 1-2 feet (0.3-0.6 meters) and a width of 2-3 feet (0.6-0.9 meters). This plant forms a low mound with pinnately compound leaves and bears yellow, showy flowers with five petals that bloom in the spring, attracting pollinators. The foliage can sometimes have a chocolate-like scent, which is particularly noticeable on warm days, hence the name "Indian Chocolate".
Cleveland’s Cinquefoil is valued for its drought tolerance and its ability to thrive in challenging conditions, making it suitable for xeriscaping and native plant gardens. It is often used in rock gardens, as ground cover, or in border plantings. While it prefers full sun, it can tolerate partial shade and requires minimal water once established. It is adaptable to a variety of well-draining soils, including sandy or loamy types. There are no major disease or pest issues, but overwatering can lead to root rot.CC BY-SA 4.0
Cleveland’s Cinquefoil is valued for its drought tolerance and its ability to thrive in challenging conditions, making it suitable for xeriscaping and native plant gardens. It is often used in rock gardens, as ground cover, or in border plantings. While it prefers full sun, it can tolerate partial shade and requires minimal water once established. It is adaptable to a variety of well-draining soils, including sandy or loamy types. There are no major disease or pest issues, but overwatering can lead to root rot.CC BY-SA 4.0
Plant Description
- Plant Type: Herb
- Height: 1-2 feet
- Width: 2-3 feet
- Growth Rate: Moderate
- Flower Color: Yellow
- Flowering Season: Spring
- Leaf Retention: Deciduous
Growth Requirements
- Sun: Full Sun
- Water: Low
- Drainage: Fast
Common Uses
Drought Tolerant, Low Maintenance, Rock Garden, Showy Flowers
Natural Habitat
Chaparral, coastal sage scrub, and oak woodlands
Other Names
Common Names: Cleveland’s Cinquefoil, Indian Chocolate
Scientific Names: , Potentilla clevelandii, Horkelia bolanderi subsp. clevelandii, Horkelia clevelandii, Potentilla bolanderi var. clevelandii,
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