The Story
Plant Bio
A variety of the flowering currant, this upright, deciduous shrub is native to western North America. It is prized for its pendulous clusters of pink to reddish-pink flowers that appear in early spring, attracting hummingbirds and pollinators.
The varietal name 'glutinosum' refers to the glandular, sticky (glutinous) nature of its leaves, stems, and flower bracts, which release a resinous scent when crushed.
Uses & Benefits:
Essentials
At a Glance
Plant Type
Shrub
Height
120 inches
Width
84 inches
Light
Full Sun, Partial Sun
Zones
6, 7, 8
Water
Moderate
Humidity
Average
Lifespan
Decades
Native To
Western North America
Toxicity
Non-toxic
Bloom period
Early spring – Mid-spring
In flower about 2 months of the year
Planting
How to Grow
- Tuck seeds into moist soil in early spring for best germination.
- Mist cuttings regularly to maintain humidity and encourage rooting.
- Plant in well-drained soil with full sun for optimal growth.
- Water consistently during the first growing season to establish roots.
- Apply mulch around the base to retain moisture and suppress weeds.
- Prune after flowering to shape the shrub and promote new growth.
Pro Tip
Use a balanced fertilizer in early spring to support healthy flowering and foliage.
Keep It Thriving
Care Guide
Do
- Water deeply during dry spells 🌱
- Prune after flowering to maintain shape
- Mulch annually to conserve moisture
Don't
- Avoid overwatering to prevent root rot ❌
- Don’t prune in late fall or winter
- Refrain from fertilizing excessively in late summer
Seasonal Care Calendar
| Task | Jan | Feb | Mar | Apr | May | Jun | Jul | Aug | Sep | Oct | Nov | Dec |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Fertilize | ||||||||||||
| Plant | ||||||||||||
| Prune | ||||||||||||
| Spring Cleanup |
Watch Out For
Pests & Diseases
Common Pests
Common Diseases
In the Garden
Landscape Uses & Companions
Landscape Uses
Companion Plants
Multiply
Propagation Methods
Good to Know
Common Questions
Pink-Flowering Currant questions
What zones can Pink-Flowering Currant grow in?
Pink-Flowering Currant is hardy in USDA Zones 6–8. Inside that range it survives winter in the ground; outside it, grow it as an annual or a container plant you protect.
Is Pink-Flowering Currant deer resistant?
Yes — Pink-Flowering Currant is rated deer-resistant. Deer typically pass it over, though extreme hunger can override any plant's defenses.
When does Pink-Flowering Currant bloom?
Pink-Flowering Currant typically blooms in early spring through mid-spring. Exact timing shifts a week or two with your zone — Sow's bloom calendar maps it to your garden.
Does Pink-Flowering Currant need full sun?
Pink-Flowering Currant does best in full sun to part shade. In hot climates, afternoon shade keeps blooms fresher longer.
Is Pink-Flowering Currant drought tolerant?
Yes — once established (usually after the first full season), Pink-Flowering Currant handles dry spells with minimal watering. Water deeply its first year to build the root system that makes that possible.
More Ribes to compare
Golden Currant
Ribes aureum
Alpine Currant
Ribes alpinum
King Edward VII Flowering Currant
Ribes sanguineum 'King Edward VII'
Claremont Currant
Ribes sanguineum 'Claremont'
Green Mound Alpine Currant
Ribes alpinum 'Green Mound'
Evergreen Currant
Ribes viburnifolium
Keep exploring
Explore the genus
Hardy in your zone?
Grow Pink-Flowering Currant with confidence
See it in a design of your actual yard, get zone-matched care reminders, and track it season by season in your garden journal.