Names and Myths

Potentillia from the Latin potens = powerful, cure-alls. ¹

simplex unbranched

cinque French for five leaved foil plant. Pliny recommended cinquefoils as an ointment for scrofula, which was the origin of the name

Natural history / Folklore

It is mildly astringent and was used as a gargle for loose teeth and spongy gums.³²

Description

April and June yellow flowers, prostrate stems rooting at the nodes. Fields and dry woods.