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Ribes sanguineum – Grossulariaceae - 'Red-Flowering Currant,' Ribes sanguineum ssp. glutinosum. - One of the most spectacular flowering perennials in the flora of the west coast, this winter-flowering shrub is often the first sign that the gardening season is beginning. The pendant flower clusters appear as the new leaves are emerging, creating a beautiful show in the often leafless sticks of the deciduous forest. the red-pink flowers attract hummingbirds and are followed by 'edible' currants which only appeal to birds as well.

Red-Flowering Currant is a deciduous shrub that will grow with different habits depending on the exposure. Plants in sunny, windswept locations will grow short and dense, about 3'-4' tall, while plants in the full shade of a coniferous forest will grow lanky and tall, to nearly tree-like proportions of 10'-12' tall. Although it does well in the wetter parts of the native garden, it is also perfectly drought tolerant, and will happily tolerate the California dry season with no supplemental water. It is long-lived and attractive in all seasons. It is hardy to at least 5ºF, probably less.