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Ribes rubrum (Red Currant)

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description Ribes rubrum (Red Currant) Overview

Ribes rubrum, commonly called red currant, is a deciduous shrub native to western Europe and cultivated for its edible fruit. Its small berries are translucent red and develop in hanging clusters, with a tart flavor suited to jellies, preserves, sauces, and desserts. The plant is grown in temperate gardens and belongs to the genus Ribes, which also includes black currants and several related fruiting shrubs.

help Ribes rubrum (Red Currant) FAQ

Are red currants illegal to grow in the United States?

Currants were widely banned in the US in the early 20th century because they can host white pine blister rust, a disease threatening timber pines, and the federal restriction was lifted in 1966. A few states, notably in New England, still regulate Ribes planting, so check local rules before buying.

What do you actually make with red currants?

Their tartness makes them classic jelly fruit, and red currant jelly is a traditional accompaniment to lamb. The translucent berries also work in preserves, sauces, and desserts like summer pudding.

What are good red currant varieties to plant?

'Red Lake' and 'Jonkheer van Tets' are two long-established, widely grown Ribes rubrum cultivars. 'Jonkheer van Tets' is a Dutch early variety, while 'Red Lake' is prized for heavy yields of large clusters.

When do you harvest red currants?

The berries ripen in midsummer, typically around July in the northern hemisphere, hanging in clusters called strigs. Many growers pick the whole strig at once when most berries are fully red, before birds strip the bushes.

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