Currant

Ribes species

Fruits and Vegetables, Trees and Shrubs

Grow in rich, well-drained soil, full sun to some shade; most benefit from some sun protection in hot climates; space plants 5-6' apart. Consistent moisture important. Grow from hardwood cuttings in fall, ideally in a protected spot or cold frame. Most are self-fertile, though cross-pollination can be helpful. Zone 3-5

Ribes rubrum and Ribes sativum are the popular red, and common or white currant, respectively. Less well-known but hardier are Ribes alpinum, the alpine or mountain currant, and Ribes odoratum, or buffalo or golden currant, both hardy to zone 2

Note that Ribes nigrum, the black currant, may not be grown in parts of the U.S., as it is an alternate host for a white pine disease. It requires ample space, up to 8' in all directions