About
Ribes sanguineum, the flowering currant, is a vigorous deciduous shrub with lobed, aromatic, green leaves. Pendent racemes of reddish-pink tubular flowers in spring � one of the most familiar signs of spring in the garden � are followed by spherical, blue-black fruit. An easy and popular shrub for a wide range of garden positions.
About the genus
Ribes, the currants and gooseberries, are deciduous or evergreen shrubs, sometimes spiny, with simple, usually palmately lobed leaves and small, tubular or bell-shaped flowers borne in spring or summer, followed by juicy, sometimes edible berries. Ornamental and useful garden shrubs.
Growing conditions
SunlightFull sun
Soil typeChalk, Clay, Loam, Sand
Soil pHAcid, Alkaline, Neutral
Soil moistureMoist but well-drained
AspectEast-facing, North-facing, South-facing, West-facing
ExposureExposed, Sheltered
UK hardinessH6
Plant details
Plant typeShrubs
HabitBushy
FoliageDeciduous
Height1.5-2.5 metres
Spread1.5-2.5 metres
Time to full height5-10 years
Suggested usesCottage and informal garden, Wildlife gardens
Native toWestern N America
FragranceFoliage
Care notes
CultivationEasy to grow in moderately fertile, well-drained soil in full sun. Useful for informal hedging
PruningPruning group 2 or Pruning group 13 if wall-trained, in late summer; trim hedges after flowering
PropagationPropagate by hardwood cuttings in winter
Pest resistanceMay be susceptible to scale insects, gall mites, gall midge and aphids
Disease resistanceMay be susceptible to currant leaf spot, powdery mildews, coral spot, rust diseases and sometimes honey fungus