Flowering Currant King Edward VII

This glorious, free flowering shrub will make an impact. Rarely seen and much sought after, it is sure to be a talking point in your garden for many years to come. It blooms gloriously in spring, has a stunning autumn show and even in winter its bark is a handsome feature.

In spring this wonderful, deciduous shrub is awash with colour. The dainty panicles of rich pink to red flowers (to around 15cm) open all along the branches in groups of up to 30 florets that open from top to bottom. They have a soft, currant like fragrance. The aromatic, three lobed leaves emerge around the same time, they also smell of currants.

In autumn the flowers can be followed by blue-black, ornamental berries for the birds to enjoy. They are a bit bitter for us, though could be used in jams/desserts. The leaves turn rich gold with red and purple blushes.

The mid green, lobed foliage is rough to the touch, turns red and yellow in autumn. Then they fall to reveal the handsome orange/red tinged bark. Once established the bark becomes brown/grey then begins peeling to reveal the colourful layer beneath.

Plant in moderately fertile to humus rich, well drained soil. Water to establish, then you only need worry if rainfall is low, they are quite dry tolerant. A nice choice for a shrubbery or casual hedge. Frost tolerant and easy care. Beneficial insects and birds will adore this shrub.

Currant ‘King Edward VII’ responds well to pruning. It is ideal to remove old wood, crossing branches back to their base in witner as a basis. You can be more ghung ho and prune to shape in summer after the berries. You can repeat the shaping in winter if required. Don’t forget it flowers best on second year wood so don’t go too hard or you will miss out on the flower show.