Flowering Currant
Ribes sanguineum glutinosumfam. Rosaceae
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Pl. A6A2 — Ribes sanguineum glutinosum
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IOverview
Overview
Flowering Currant (Ribes sanguineum glutinosum) is a shrub native to California and Oregon, known for its ornamental value and edible fruit. This plant thrives in full to partial sun with moist soil that can be light (sandy), medium, or heavy (clay). It prefers a pH range of 6 to 7.5 and grows up to 2.7 meters tall. The plant is valued for its clusters of pink to red flowers and edible berries, making it a delightful addition to gardens in USDA hardiness zones 5-9. Its adaptability to various soil types and sunlight conditions make it a versatile choice for gardeners.
Quick answers
What is Flowering Currant?
Flowering Currant (Ribes sanguineum glutinosum) is a shrub native to California and Oregon, known for its ornamental value and edible fruit. This plant thrives in full to partial sun with moist soil that can be light (sandy), medium, or heavy (clay).
Growingconditions · propagation · uses
VCultivation
Cultivation
Flowering Currant thrives in full to partial sun and requires moist, well-draining soil with a pH between 6 and 7.5. It prefers light (sandy), medium, or heavy (clay) soils. Hardy in zones 5-9, this shrub can grow up to 2.7 meters tall. For propagation, use cuttings or seeds. The fruit is edible and makes for a delightful addition to the garden.
Light
Full sun, Partial sun/shade
Water
Moist
Soil
Light (sandy), Medium, Heavy (clay)
Hardiness
5-9
Habit
Shrub
Mature size
2.7 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 beauty and potential fruit.
- 1
What you'll need
Flowering Currant plants, garden gloves, trowel, watering can.
- 2
Best time to plant
Plant in early spring or late fall when the soil is moist and cool.
- 3
Soil and container prep
Ensure the soil drains well but retains moisture. Amend with compost if needed.
- 4
Sowing or transplanting
Transplant young plants from a nursery, spacing them 2-3 meters apart in the garden.
- 5
First two weeks
Water regularly to keep soil moist but not waterlogged. Monitor for pests and diseases.
- 6
Ongoing care
Water during dry spells, prune lightly in late winter to maintain shape. Mulch around the base.
- 7
Harvest or pruning
Prune after flowering to encourage new growth and remove any dead branches.
- 8
Common mistakes
Overwatering, planting too deep, neglecting pruning, using incorrect soil type, not providing enough sunlight.
VIEdible & utility
Edible & utility
Edible parts:Fruit
Edible uses: The flowering currant's fruit is edible and can be eaten fresh or used in various preparations. Typically, the berries are harvested when ripe and consumed raw for their sweet taste. They can also be dried to preserve them for later use.
Other uses:Hedgerow
Contextrange · companions · related
VIIDistribution
2 native · 0 introduced
Distribution
2 native · 0 introducedDistribution across0 continents· 2 native
Broader regions
native:California, Oregon
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
Explore further
Companion planting
Compare with similar plants
Growing zone
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