Ribes rubrum Red currant (Grossulariaceae) Deciduous shrub

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Ribes rubrum
Red currant
Deciduous shrub
(1 Page of 5)

The Ribes rubrum plant species is found in Britain. It is a member of the Grossulariaceae family. Common gardeners may know the plant as Red currant. Some home gardeners know the variety as R. sylvestre. R. vulgare. pro parte

Cultivation | Propagation | General Uses
Medicinal | Edible Uses

Latin Name:  Ribes rubrum
Common Name:  Red currant
Family:  Grossulariaceae
Author:  L. pro parte sense Jancz.

Known Hazards:  The fresh leaves contain the toxin hydrogen cyanide, though details of quantities are not given[240]. This substance is found in several foods, including almonds. In small quantities, hydrogen cyanide has been shown to stimulate respiration and improve digestion, it is also claimed to be of benefit in the treatment of cancer. In excess, however, it can cause respiratory failure and even death.

Mature Height:  1.2   Mature Width:

Habitat:  Damp soils in hedges and woods, avoiding acid soils[7, 9, 17].

Cultivation Notes: Easily grown in a moisture retentive but well-drained loamy soil of at least moderate quality[11, 200]. Plants are quite tolerant of shade, even succeeding on a north-facing wall[200], though they do not fruit so well in such a position[11]. Prefers a pH in the range 5.5 to 6[200]. Hardy to about -20°c[200]. Redcurrants are often cultivated in temperate zones for their edible fruit, there are some named varieties, including forms with white fruits[4, 61]. Most cultivars are self-fertile and set a good crop on their own[200]. The fruit is produced at the base of one-year old and older wood, plants start to fruit at 3 - 4 years from seed[200]. This is an aggregate species comprising R. spicatum and R. rubrum. There is some confusion in nomenclature with some botanists only recognising 2 species, R. silvestre. (syn R. sativum) and R. spicatum (syn R. rubrum)[17, 200]. Plants can harbour a stage of white pine blister rust, so should not be grown in the vicinity of pine trees[155]. Plants in this genus are notably susceptible to honey fungus[200].

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Cultivation | Propagation | General Uses
Medicinal | Edible Uses

The information above has been supplied solely via the hard work and dedication of the team at 'Plants for a Future'.
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