Blackcurrant
Ribes nigrum
Also known as
Currant
Ribes nigrum, 2006-07-31 by Lithuanian Wikipedia (CC-BY-SA-3.0)
Full Sun
Moderate care
Moderate watering
Frost Hardy
4a-8b
USDA zone
-34°C
Minimum temperature
Expected size
Height | Spread | |
|---|---|---|
2m | Max | 1.5m |
50cm | Min | 50cm |
4 years to reach maturity
Fruiting
spring
summer
autumn
winter
The wild variety of Blackcurrants need the berries to be harvested individually as they do not ripen at the same rate, however, there are some cultivars that are designed for easy harvesting. The berries do not store well for very long and so should be eaten as soon as possible. They can, however, be frozen or cooked to make them last longer.
More images of Blackcurrant
Blackcurrant Overview
The Blackcurrant is a deciduous shrub that is grown for its small, edible, black berries which are high in Vitamin C as well as containing other vital minerals. Though the berries are quite tart to eat raw they are a common occurrence in jams, cordials and desserts. They are thought to have some medicinal properties that help people with adrenal problems as well as fatigue. Growing Blackcurrants can be a commitment as they usually have to be 4 years old before they start to fruiting. and need regular pruning to keep the shrub in a productive shape.
Common problems with Blackcurrant
Gall Mite, Blackcurrant Leaf Curling Midge
Blackcurrant Companion Plants
How to propagate Blackcurrant
Seed
Seeds need to be soaked for 24 hours (Removing the floating ones) and stratified in the fridge for 3 months. After stratification, plant the seeds individually into small pots and put them into a cold frame. Once the seedlings have a set of true leaves then move them to a sunny area of the garden.
Cuttings
Blackcurrants take well to hardwood cuttings. These should be taken during the dormant stage of the plant. Cut approximately 30cm off of the tip of a healthy Blackcurrant branch and place it into a tall plant pot. The branch should be at least 1 year old and have many leaf buds on it.
Special features of Blackcurrant
Wet sites
Attractive fruits
Attracts bees
Attractive flowers
Flowers range from pale pinks to deep pinky reds.
Other uses of Blackcurrant
Culinary, high vitamin C content, also made into preserves and wine.
Edible
The fruits can be eaten raw or made into jams, cordials, as well as desserts.
Medicinal
The berries can be eaten raw or Ribes nigrum extract can be purchased and taken as a homoeopathic medicine
Spring Flowering Garden Shrubs
These spring flowering shrubs are great additions, providing pollinators with habitat, shelter and food.
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