Potentilla crinita is most easily distinguished by the large numbers of leaflets on each leaf, up to 17. The otherwise entire leaflets are notched on either side of the apex. The top of the leaves is green, but underneath they are white tomentose. The flowering stems may rise to 30cm above the leaves which are mainly basal. The yellow petals are longer than the sepals. Potentilla crinita is found in meadows in the Ponderosa Pine forest.