Scarlet Dreams Cinquefoil
Potentilla fruticosa 'Scarlet Dreams'
Essentials
At a Glance
Plant Type
Shrub
Height
18 inches
Width
30 inches
Light
Full Sun, Partial Sun
Zones
4, 5, 6, 7
Water
Moderate, drought-tolerant once established
Humidity
Average
Lifespan
10+ years
Native To
Asia, Europe, North America
Toxicity
Non-toxic to humans and pets
The Story
Plant Bio
Scarlet Dreams is a compact, deciduous shrub that produces abundant orange-red flowers, which may fade in intense sun, throughout the growing season. This cultivar is known for its vibrant flower color and extended blooming period, making it a standout in gardens.
Uses & Benefits:
Marketplace
Where to Buy
Shipping costs Year-round shipping Free shipping
Planting
How to Grow
- Select a sunny location with well-drained soil for planting.
- Tuck seeds or cuttings into moist soil in early spring or fall.
- Water regularly to keep soil evenly moist during establishment.
- Thin out crowded growth to promote air circulation.
- Fertilize with a balanced fertilizer in early spring.
- Prune after flowering to maintain shape and encourage new growth.
Pro Tip
Mulch around the plant to conserve moisture and suppress weeds, especially in hot climates.
Keep It Thriving
Care Guide
Do
- Water deeply during dry spells 💧
- Prune lightly after flowering to shape the shrub ✂️
- Apply a balanced fertilizer annually 🌱
- Monitor for pests regularly 🐞
Don't
- Avoid overwatering to prevent root rot ❌
- Don’t prune in late fall or winter ❄️
- Don’t fertilize with high nitrogen in late season ❌
- Never ignore signs of pests or disease ❌
Seasonal Care Calendar
| Task | Jan | Feb | Mar | Apr | May | Jun | Jul | Aug | Sep | Oct | Nov | Dec |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Fertilize | ||||||||||||
| Mulch | ||||||||||||
| Prune |
Watch Out For
Pests & Diseases
Common Pests
Common Diseases
In the Garden
Landscape Uses & Companions
Landscape Uses
Companion Plants
Multiply
Propagation Methods
Good to Know
Common Questions
Scarlet Dreams Cinquefoil questions
What zones can Scarlet Dreams Cinquefoil grow in?
Scarlet Dreams Cinquefoil is hardy in USDA Zones 4–7. Inside that range it survives winter in the ground; outside it, grow it as an annual or a container plant you protect.
Is Scarlet Dreams Cinquefoil deer resistant?
Yes — Scarlet Dreams Cinquefoil is rated deer-resistant. Deer typically pass it over, though extreme hunger can override any plant's defenses.
When does Scarlet Dreams Cinquefoil bloom?
Scarlet Dreams Cinquefoil typically blooms in late spring to fall through late summer. Exact timing shifts a week or two with your zone — Sow's bloom calendar maps it to your garden.
Does Scarlet Dreams Cinquefoil need full sun?
Scarlet Dreams Cinquefoil does best in full sun to part shade. In hot climates, afternoon shade keeps blooms fresher longer.
Is Scarlet Dreams Cinquefoil drought tolerant?
Yes — once established (usually after the first full season), Scarlet Dreams Cinquefoil handles dry spells with minimal watering. Water deeply its first year to build the root system that makes that possible.
More Potentilla to compare
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Spring Cinquefoil
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Spring Cinquefoil
Potentilla neumanii
Happy Face Hearts Bush Cinquefoil
Potentilla fruticosa 'Happy Face Hearts'
Neumann's Cinquefoil
Potentilla neumanianna
Keep exploring
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Grow Scarlet Dreams Cinquefoil with confidence
See it in a design of your actual yard, get zone-matched care reminders, and track it season by season in your garden journal.
