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Northwest Blooms · Shrubs

Ribes sanguineum 'Pulborough Scarlet'

Pulborough Scarlet Flowering Currant

Ribes sanguineum 'Pulborough Scarlet'
Family
Grossulariaceae
Height
6 to 8 feet
Width
6 to 8 feet
Flower color
Scarlet-red
Foliage color
Green
Bloom time
Early spring
Light
Full sun to partial shade
Water
Regular watering, especially during dry periods
Maintenance
Relatively low-maintenance
Growing zone
USDA zones 6 to 9
Wildlife
Highly attractive to hummingbirds and bees

About this plant

Ribes sanguineum 'Pulborough Scarlet' is a deciduous shrub prized for its vibrant, early spring flowers and ornamental foliage. It produces pendulous clusters of bright, scarlet-red flowers that are highly attractive to hummingbirds and bees. The tubular flowers appear before the foliage fully emerges, creating a striking display against the branches. As the flowers fade, the shrub's green, lobed leaves unfurl, providing a beautiful backdrop for the rest of the growing season. The aromatic foliage adds to its appeal, and in fall, the leaves may turn shades of yellow or red before dropping, providing additional seasonal interest.

'Pulborough Scarlet' prefers full sun to partial shade and is relatively low-maintenance, making it a valuable addition to gardens seeking a burst of color and interest in the early part of the growing season. Its graceful, upright form works beautifully in mixed shrub borders, informal hedges, and naturalistic garden settings.

Works well in

Sun Gardens · Cottage Gardens · Pathways & Walkways · Pollinators Gardens

Companion plants

Camas · Mexican orange blossom · Bee balm · Maiden grass · Sea thrift · Flowering quince

Design tip

Grow Ribes aureum near a patio or frequently traveled path where its clove-like spring fragrance can be enjoyed without making it a formal focal point. Its loose, natural character works especially well as a transition between cultivated beds and wilder plantings.