Red flowering currant - Ribes sanguineum (Care, Characteristics, Flower, Images)

Red flowering currant

Also known as: Flowering currant, Winter currant

Red flowering currant (Ribes sanguineum) is a deciduous shrub that grows rounded and bushy in full sun. It produces an abundance of small pinkish-red to pale-pink blooms from spring to summer that attract hummingbirds bees and butterflies. It also attracts a variety of wildlife which forage for the blue-black berries that appear in mid-summer.

Scientific classification

Species

Red flowering currant (Ribes sanguineum)

Saxifrages, stonecrops and allies

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Perennial

Lifespan

Shrub

Plant Type

Mid spring, Late spring

Bloom Time

Spring, Summer, Early fall, Mid winter

Harvest Time

2 m

Plant Height

2 m

Spread

Green

Leaf Color

5 mm to 1 cm

Flower Size

Black, Blue

Fruit Color

Red, Pink, White

Flower Color

Red

Stem Color

Winter dormancy

Dormancy

Deciduous

Leaf type

0 - 32 ℃

Ideal Temperature

Images of Red flowering currant

Attributes of Red flowering currant

Growth Rate

During its active growing seasons in Spring and Summer, red flowering currant grows at a moderate rate; this pace enables it to sustain steady leaf proliferation and size augmentation. The Spring season typically prompts an increased production of its vibrant, red flowers, while Summer usually leads to a growth spurt in height. This gentle but continuous seasonal growth provides the plant enough time to direct resources across all developmental aspects, contributing to its overall robust health and striking beauty.

Distribution of Red flowering currant

Distribution Map

Red flowering currant is native to North America. It is found along coastlines in woodlands and forests. It has been introduced to parts of Europe.

Native

Cultivated

Invasive

Introduced

No species reported

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Habitat

Open to wooded, moist to rather dry valleys and foothills

Hemisphere Trend Curve

Northern

Sorthern

Culture

Garden Use

Red flowering currant is a popular garden shrub, especially in the United Kingdom. Common in cottage-style gardens, both its foliage and flowers are highly decorative. It is often found in fruit and vegetable gardens, but can also be a lovely addition to a wildlife garden because it attracts birds. Recommended companion plants are ocean spray, vine maples, and western sword fern.

Symbolism

Loving power and compassion

Interesting Facts

Red flowering currant is native to the Western United States and parts of Canada. The Scottish Botanist, David Douglas, helped to introduce this shrub as a cultivated species in the 19th century. Now it is often grown and cultivated for its brightly colored, scented flowers. Eating the unripe berries or large amounts of ripe berries can cause nausea and vomiting.

Name Story

Red flowering currant||Bloody currant: Sanguineum means “blood-red” which is referring to the color of the flowers, although the flowers are usually rosy or pale pink. The word "currant" is given for its fruit's resemblance to the dried currants of Greece, raisins that are made from a small seedless grape. Therefore, it is commonly called red flowering currant or bloody currant.

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Cultivars

There are several recognized cultivars of Red flowering currant, including the following common varieties :

Red flowering currant 'Pulborough Scarlet'Red flowering currant 'Elkington's White'Red flowering currant 'King Edward VII'

Quickly Identify Red flowering currant

Matte green leaves with 3-5 lobes and irregularly serrated edges.

Pendulous racemes of white, pink, or deep red flowers in spring.

Purple or blue-black berries with a noticeable white glaucous coating.

Upright stem covered in fine pubescence, aging from dark green to grayish brown.

Bark transitions from orange-red to grayish-brown, peeling with maturity.

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Care Guide for Red flowering currant

Every 1-2 weeks

Water

Full sun

Sunlight

0 - 32 ℃

Ideal Temperature

Garden Soil

Soil Type

Water: Red flowering currant originates from the coastal regions of North America, preferring moist environments. It requires watering every 1-2 weeks, balancing hydration and drought resilience. As primarily an outdoor plant, it benefits from natural rainfall, reducing the need for supplemental watering in wet seasons.

Fertilize: For optimal growth, red flowering currant requires balanced, slow-release fertilizers in early spring, continuing monthly until late summer. Use a 10-10-10 formula, not exceeding 1 tablespoon per plant. Water thoroughly post-application, and stop fertilization by fall to avoid frost damage. Practice safety while handling fertilizers.

Pruning: Red flowering currant thrives with vibrant spring flowers. Prune in late spring post-bloom by cutting one-third of the oldest stems to the base. This encourages new growth and aeration. Always use clean tools and avoid heavy pruning before winter to prevent plant stress.

Propagation: Red flowering currant is a deciduous shrub valued for its vibrant blossoms. Propagating red flowering currant via cuttings involves selecting a healthy stem, cutting it at a 45-degree angle, using rooting hormone, and planting in well-draining mix. Keep the cutting moist and in indirect light until roots form, then transplant.

Repotting: Repot red flowering currant every 2-3 years in early spring using a spacious container with good drainage. After repotting, maintain consistent moisture and place in part-shade for recovery, enhancing its vibrant pendulous flower clusters.

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Images of Red flowering currant

Attributes of Red flowering currant

Distribution of Red flowering currant

Culture

Cultivars

Quickly Identify Red flowering currant

Care Guide for Red flowering currant

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