Silvery Cinquefoil.Potentilla argentea.
Found during June and July, in dry sandy soil, barrens and fields.
The stalk is about 6 inches high, branching somewhat, slender, stiff, tough fibred, and covered closely with silky white wool, through which the pinkish color of the bark shows.
The leaflets are 5, each being deeply cleft 5 to 9 times; the margin is entire, and the edge is slightly rolled under; the texture is very smooth and fine; the upper side of the leaf is dark green, the underside is covered with a white silky wool. The lower leaves are set on long stems, the upper leaf-stems gradually shorten till they disappear and the leaves themselves clasp the stalk with a pair of wings.
The flower is like the Five-finger blossom, but smaller, with many stamens; in color it is a light clear yellow. The calyx-parts are as long as the petals; green above, and white underneath. The flowers, on short leafy stems, form little terminal groups.
The silver lining of the pretty leaf outlined by its tiny rolling edge of bright green is a highly attractive feature, and the surface is charming to the touch.