pink flowering currant ribes sanguineum

The Gorgeous and Versatile Pink Flowering Currant

The pink flowering currant (ribes sanguineum) is a gorgeous shrub that brings beauty and utility to any garden With its cascading blooms in shades of pink and red, this flowering currant provides a pop of color in early spring when many other plants are still dormant But it’s not just a pretty face – this currant is hardy, drought-tolerant, and provides food and habitat for pollinators and birds. Whether you’re a beginner gardener or a seasoned pro, the pink flowering currant deserves a spot in your landscape.

A Closer Look at Pink Flowering Currant

Pink flowering currant is a deciduous shrub native to the West Coast of North America. It typically grows 5-10 feet tall and wide with an arching fountain-like form. The leaves are lobed and bright green, developing a beautiful reddish-orange fall color. But the real showstopper is the blooms. Long clusters of tubular pink or red flowers dangle delicately from the branches in early spring, bringing color at a time when many other plants are still dormant. The flowers later give way to edible (but tart) blue-black berries. There are a few popular varieties to choose from, like the deep pink ‘Claremont’ or lighter pink ‘Album’.

Hardy and Adaptable

One of the best things about pink flowering currant is its hardiness and adaptability. It thrives in a variety of conditions, including full sun or part shade, and is drought tolerant once established. Pink flowering currant grows well in USDA zones 6-10, making it suitable for most climates. It can handle cold winters as well as hot summers. This currant does well in most soil types, though good drainage is a must. Established plants are remarkably tough and require little care besides occasional pruning.

Wildlife Love Pink Flowering Currant

If you want to invite wildlife into your garden, pink flowering currant is a great choice. The early blooms provide an important food source for pollinators like bees, butterflies, and hummingbirds when other nectar sources are still scarce. The berries are devoured by songbirds in summer. Deer tend to leave this plant alone. Pink flowering currant also serves as a larval host plant for the Western Tiger Swallowtail butterfly. So you’ll get the reward of seeing beautiful butterflies fluttering around your garden.

Uses in the Landscape

Thanks to its versatility, there are many ways to showcase pink flowering currant in your yard. Here are some ideas:

• Mass planting – Group multiple shrubs together for a big splash of early color.

• Specimen planting – Plant one currant as a focal point in a garden bed or next to your front door.

• Hedges and screens – Line your property line or block unwanted views with a flowering currant hedge.

• Wildlife gardens – Mix currants with other native plants to create an attractive habitat for birds and pollinators.

• Shade gardens – Pink flowering currant thrives under tall trees and brightens up shady spots.

• Containers – You can even grow currants in pots on patios, decks, and balconies.

Caring for Your Pink Flowering Currant

Luckily, pink flowering currant isn’t fussy and doesn’t require much work to thrive. Here are some tips:

• Plant in spring or fall. Space multiple plants 5-6 feet apart.

• Water regularly the first 1-2 years until established. Then water only during droughts.

• Fertilize in early spring with a balanced organic fertilizer.

• Prune annually after flowering to shape and improve blooming.

• Watch for aphids and other pests; treat organically as needed.

The Perfect Plant for Pollinators and People

With its early blossoms, wildlife benefits, hardy nature, and graceful beauty, it’s easy to see why pink flowering currant is a gem. This flowering shrub earns its place in any garden, whether your style is wild and natural or formal. The pink flowering currant works hard by feeding hungry pollinators while bringing charm and ornamental appeal. Give this plant a try and you’ll soon fall in love!