Grevillea ‘Robyn Gordon’ is a specific cultivar within the Proteaceae family, a group of plants renowned for their unique and spectacular flowers. It is a hybrid, believed to be a cross between the Australian natives Grevillea banksii and Grevillea bipinnatifida. As a cultivar, it does not occur naturally in the wild but was selectively bred for its ornamental characteristics, namely its prolific and long-lasting flowering habit and its manageable, shrub-like form. This hybrid origin is crucial for American gardeners to understand, as it informs the plant's specific cultural requirements, which differ from many native US species.
From a botanical perspective, 'Robyn Gordon' exhibits several distinct physical traits. It is a dense, sprawling evergreen shrub that typically reaches 4-6 feet in both height and spread. Its foliage is deeply divided, fern-like, and a deep green color with a slightly bronzy new growth, providing textural interest year-round. The most striking feature is its flowers. Botanically, the colorful "blooms" are actually inflorescences composed of hundreds of small individual flowers (a racemose conflorescence). These showy racemes, lacking true petals, are a vivid coral-red to deep pink color and are rich in nectar. They are borne on long stalks and appear prolifically throughout the year in warm climates, with a peak in spring and fall, making the plant an exceptional resource for pollinators.
The physiology of Grevillea ‘Robyn Gordon’ dictates a very specific set of growing conditions for success in the American landscape. Its root system is proteoid, characterized by dense clusters of fine lateral roots that are supremely efficient at nutrient uptake in impoverished soils. This adaptation means the plant is extremely sensitive to phosphorus; fertilizers containing this element are often toxic and can quickly kill the plant. It thrives in full sun, which is essential for prolific flowering and maintaining a compact form. Well-drained soil is non-negotiable; heavy, clay-rich, or water-retentive soils will lead to root rot and fungal diseases. It is best suited to USDA Hardiness Zones 9-11, tolerating only brief, light frosts once established.
In the American ecosystem, ‘Robyn Gordon’ serves primarily as an ornamental and a resource for wildlife. Its nectar-rich flowers are highly attractive to hummingbirds, bees, and other pollinators, providing a valuable food source. The dense, prickly foliage can also offer shelter for small birds. It is highly tolerant of coastal conditions, including salt spray and windy environments. Furthermore, once established, it exhibits excellent drought tolerance, making it a prime candidate for water-wise, xeriscape gardens in suitable climates. Its growth habit is generally non-invasive, and it is not known to be a host for significant pests or diseases in the US, aside from the mentioned susceptibility to root rot in poor conditions.
