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Description
Ribes Sanguineum King Edward Vii, also known as Flowering Currant, is a deciduous shrub that belongs to the Grossulariaceae family. It is native to western North America and is commonly found in moist habitats such as stream banks, woodland edges, and meadows. This shrub has a fast growth rate and can reach a height of 8-10 feet with a spread of 6-8 feet. The leaves are lobed and green in color, and the flowers are dark pinkish-red and bloom in late winter to early spring.
Taxonomic Information
| Domain | Eukaryota |
| Kingdom | Plantae |
| Phylum | Spermatophyta |
| Class | Angiospermae |
| Order | Saxifragales |
| Family | Grossulariaceae |
| Genus | Ribes |
Appearance
Ribes Sanguineum King Edward Vii has a dense, rounded form with an upright growth habit. It has lobed leaves that are green in color and turn yellow in the fall. The flowers are dark pinkish-red and grow in clusters that are 3-4 inches long. The clusters hang down from the branches and bloom in late winter to early spring, providing a burst of color to the garden. After the flowers fade, small red berries appear that are edible but not commonly eaten.
Care Guide
Ribes Sanguineum King Edward Vii is easy to care for and requires moderate watering and fertilization. It prefers well-draining soil and full sun to partial shade. This shrub is hardy in USDA zones 6-9 and can tolerate some drought and heat. Pruning is recommended after flowering to shape the shrub and encourage new growth.
Common Pests & Diseases
Ribes Sanguineum King Edward Vii is susceptible to aphids, spider mites, and powdery mildew. Aphids and spider mites can be controlled with insecticidal soap or neem oil, while powdery mildew can be prevented by providing good air circulation and avoiding overhead watering. If left unchecked, these pests and diseases can cause leaf damage and reduce the overall health of the plant.
Habitat
Ribes Sanguineum King Edward Vii is native to western North America and is commonly found in moist habitats such as stream banks, woodland edges, and meadows. It can tolerate some drought and heat, but prefers cool, moist conditions. This shrub is often used in native plant gardens and as a hedgerow plant.
Question and Answer
Q: Can Ribes Sanguineum King Edward Vii be grown in containers?
A: While it is possible to grow this shrub in containers, it may become too large and require frequent pruning.
Q: Do the berries of Ribes Sanguineum King Edward Vii attract wildlife?
A: Yes, the berries are attractive to birds and other wildlife.
Q: How often should Ribes Sanguineum King Edward Vii be fertilized?
A: This shrub can be fertilized once a year in the spring with a balanced fertilizer.
Q: What is the best time to prune Ribes Sanguineum King Edward Vii?
A: Pruning is recommended after flowering to shape the shrub and encourage new growth.
Related Plants
- Ribes Aureum
- Ribes Malvaceum
- Ribes Divaricatum
- Ribes Cereum
References
- Dirr, M. A. (2009). Dirr’s Trees and Shrubs for Warm Climates: An Illustrated Encyclopedia. Timber Press.
- Hinkley, D. (2017). The Explorer’s Garden: Rare and Unusual Perennials. Timber Press.
- University of California Agriculture and Natural Resources. (n.d.). Flowering Currant. Retrieved from https://ucanr.edu/sites/ucmg2011/files/159193.pdf
