Redcurrant

Ribes rubrum

Also known as

Common Currant, Cultivated Currant, Garden Currant, White Currant, European Red Currant, Northern Red Currant

Full Sun

Easy care

Moderate watering

Frost Hardy

H7-H4

RHS hardiness

-20°C

Minimum temperature

Expected size

Height		Spread
	Max
1m	Min	2m

Fruiting

spring
summer
autumn
winter

Redcurrants can be harvested in summer when the fruits are firm and juicy. Cut whole strings and use immediately, or store in the fridge for a few days.

More images

Overview

Redcurrants are easily grown ornamental bushes and are useful plants. They produce nutritious edible fruits that are full of vitamin C and anti-oxidants and also contain vitamin B, iron, and phosphorus. They are extremely hardy, can be grown in a container and will grow in poor soil.

Common problems

Propagation

Cuttings

Hardwood cuttings 30 cm long. Trim off the end of the cutting just below a bud and cut the end of the stem just above a bud to leave a stem which is 15-20 cm long. Plant 10-12 cm deep. Water well.

Seed

Plant bare-root redcurrants 5 cm deep, 1.5-1.8 m apart and 1.5 m between rows. Sow in Autumn.

Layering

Gently bend stem down to the soil and scrape off some bark opposite a bud where the stem touches the soil. Peg down just below the surface and cover with 2cm of soil. Cut stem away once it has rooted.

Special Features

Pot plant

Grow Redcurrants in a large container, at least 45 cm wide and deep.

Attractive fruits

Uses

Culinary

Edible

Berries are edible and can be eaten fresh, cooked or dried, cultivated for jams or used as an accompaniment in salads, garnishes or drinks when in season.