Redcurrant
Ribes rubrum
Also known as
Common Currant, Cultivated Currant, Garden Currant, White Currant, European Red Currant, Northern Red Currant, Currant
Ribes rubrum (knospend) by SteveK (CC BY 2.5)
Full Sun
Easy care
Moderate watering
Frost Hardy
H7-H4
RHS hardiness
-20°C
Minimum temperature
Expected size
Height | Spread | |
|---|---|---|
2m | 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 of Redcurrant
Redcurrant 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 with Redcurrant
How to propagate Redcurrant
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 of Redcurrant
Pot plant
Grow Redcurrants in a large container, at least 45 cm wide and deep.
Attractive fruits
Other uses of Redcurrant
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.
Spring Flowering Garden Shrubs
These spring flowering shrubs are great additions, providing pollinators with habitat, shelter and food.
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