Flowering Currant
Ribes sanguineumfam. Rosaceae
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Pl. 4DE9 — Ribes sanguineum
Ribes sanguineumRibes sanguineumRibes sanguineumRibes sanguineumRibes sanguineumRibes sanguineumRibes sanguineumRibes sanguineumRibes sanguineumRibes sanguineumRibes sanguineumRibes sanguineumRibes sanguineumRibes sanguineum
IOverview
Overview
Flowering Currant (Ribes sanguineum) is a deciduous shrub native to the Pacific Northwest and California, thriving in moist, light to heavy soils with a pH of 6–7.5. Known for its vibrant red flowers that bloom early spring before the leaves unfurl, this plant is both ornamental and edible. The fruit can be enjoyed fresh or used in jams and jellies. Hardy from zones 5-9, it grows up to 2.5 meters tall and is found naturally in British Columbia, California, Idaho, Oregon, and Washington. Its light requirements are moderate, making it adaptable to various environments while providing a splash of color and flavor.
Quick answers
What is Flowering Currant?
Flowering Currant (Ribes sanguineum) is a deciduous shrub native to the Pacific Northwest and California, thriving in moist, light to heavy soils with a pH of 6–7.5. Known for its vibrant red flowers that bloom early spring before the leaves unfurl, this plant is both ornamental and edible.
Growingconditions · propagation · uses
VCultivation
Cultivation
Flowering Currant thrives in partial to full sunlight and prefers moist, well-drained soils that are light (sandy), medium, or heavy (clay). It is hardy in zones 5-9 and grows up to 2.5 meters tall as a shrub. Propagate through seed or softwood cuttings. The fruit can be eaten fresh or used in preserves. Ensure the soil pH is between 6 and 7.5 for best growth.
Light
8/10
Water
Moist
Soil
Light (sandy), Medium, Heavy (clay)
Hardiness
5-9
Habit
Shrub
Mature size
2.5 m tall
Soil pH
6–7.5
For first-time growers
How to grow Flowering Currant for the first time
8steps
Start with a simple planting of Flowering Currant to enjoy its beautiful blooms and learn about shrub care.
- 1
What you'll need
A young flowering currant plant, well-draining soil, and water.
- 2
Best time to plant
Plant in early spring or late fall when the weather is cooler.
- 3
Soil and container prep
Ensure your soil has a pH between 6 and 7.5 and is light (sandy), medium, or heavy (clay).
- 4
Sowing or transplanting
Transplant the young plant into a prepared garden bed or large container.
- 5
First two weeks
Water regularly to keep the soil moist but not waterlogged. Monitor for any signs of stress.
- 6
Ongoing care
Provide light watering during dry spells and mulch around the base to retain moisture and suppress weeds.
- 7
Harvest or pruning
Prune in late winter before new growth starts to maintain shape and encourage flowering.
- 8
Common mistakes
Overwatering, planting in too acidic soil, neglecting winter protection in colder zones.
VIEdible & utility
Edible & utility
Edible parts:Fruit
Edible uses: The flowering currant's fruit can be eaten raw or used in various preparations. They are often picked and consumed fresh for their sweet taste. The fruits can also be dried to preserve them for later use. Occasionally, they may be made into jams or jellies, adding a natural sweetness to desserts and spreads.
Other uses:Hedgerow
Contextrange · companions · related
VIIDistribution
5 native · 9 introduced
Distribution
5 native · 9 introducedDistribution across1 continent· 5 native· 9 introduced
Europe6 regions
introduced (6)GermanyIrelandNorwaySpainSwedenUnited Kingdom
Broader regions
native:Washington, British Columbia, California, Idaho, Oregon
introduced:Mexican Pacific Is., Tasmania, Czechoslovakia
IXSpecimen gallery
1 image
Specimen gallery
1 imageXSee also
8 related
See also
8 relatedPlants you might compare or use together — scored by shared family (Rosaceae), common use cases, and growing requirements.
same family · Rosaceae
Botanical relatives — often share phytochemistry + growing needs.
XI
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Companion planting
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Growing zone
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