Red Robin Potentilla

Overview & Description

The Marian Red Robin Potentilla (Potentilla fruticosa Marob), also known as Marrob or Red Robin, is a compact, bushy deciduous shrub prized for its long-lasting, vibrant flowers. It is considered an improved version of Red Ace, retaining its colour better and appearing less orange. From late spring until early autumn, it produces an abundance of cup-shaped, bright vermilion-red flowers with yellow centres and pale yellow petal reverses. Its small, narrow, dark green to grey-green leaves are composed of five leaflets, creating a fine, tidy texture. The flower colour can be most intense in cooler weather or partial shade. It is generally pest and disease free and attracts pollinators.

Growth & Size

This variety exhibits a dense, bushy, and spreading to mounded growth habit. It is a slow to moderate-growing dwarf shrub, typically reaching a mature size of about 0.5 to 1 meter in both height and width. It takes approximately 5-10 years to reach its full size.

Additional Notes

It blooms continuously from late spring through early autumn. Exceptionally hardy to Zone 3, it is drought-tolerant, low-maintenance, and adaptable to a wide range of well-drained soils . For best flower colour, it thrives in full sun to partial shade, as the colour can fade more rapidly in intense full sun . It is also tolerant of urban pollution and coastal conditions . An outstanding choice for borders, rock gardens, mass plantings, low hedges, or containers where continuous, vibrant colour, fine texture, and easy-care nature are desired.