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Key characteristics

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

Shrubs

Ribes sanguineum 'Pulborough Scarlet'

Pulborough Scarlet Flowering Currant

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.

Light

Full sun to partial shade

Water

Regular watering, especially during dry periods

Bloom time

Early spring

Find this plant

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.

Printable plant sheet (PDF)