Cinquefoil — (c) Woudloper, some rights reserved (CC BY-SA)
Photo by (c) Woudloper, some rights reserved (CC BY-SA)iNaturalistCC BY-SA
Pet safety reference

Cinquefoil

Potentilla spp.

Cinquefoil is a diverse genus of flowering plants in the rose family, commonly found in gardens and wild meadows. While generally considered safe for pets, it is not intended for consumption.

Five-fingerPotentillaPotentilla spp.
Light
Full sun to partial shade
Habit
Clumping or spreading
Care
Low

Safety status

Cats & Dogs

Generally safe

Consulted references do not classify the plant as toxic for that pet type, while still allowing for mild GI upset if large amounts are chewed.

Verified against ASPCA/provenance audit 2026-05-06 on May 6, 2026.

If a pet has chewed or swallowed plant material and is showing symptoms, contact a veterinarian or poison resource immediately. This product is for structured reference, not diagnosis.

Catsconcern notes

Common signs

None expected; however, ingestion of large amounts of fibrous plant material may cause mild gastrointestinal upset such as vomiting or diarrhea.

Escalation note

Non-toxic. If your cat consumes a significant amount and shows signs of distress, contact your veterinarian as a precaution.

Dogsconcern notes

Common signs

None expected; however, ingestion of large amounts of fibrous plant material may cause mild gastrointestinal upset such as vomiting or diarrhea.

Escalation note

Non-toxic. If your dog consumes a significant amount and shows signs of distress, contact your veterinarian as a precaution.

Bring it home

Cinquefoilis generally pet-safe in ordinary household exposure. If you’d like one for your space, here’s a starting point.

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Source evidence

ASPCA Toxic Plant List

toxicology · 99% reliability

Open source

Cinquefoil is listed as non-toxic to cats and dogs.

NC State Extension Plant Toolbox: Potentilla

botanical · 94% reliability

Open source

A large genus of herbaceous plants and shrubs in the Rosaceae family.

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Same safety verdict

Other plants with the same verdict

Same growing conditions

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