Red Lake Currant
Ribes rubrum
Red Lake Currant is an elegant fruiting hedge that produces long clusters of bright red fruit that is very high in vitamin C.
A favorite fruit for many people around the world, most of us Americans have not had the opportunity to taste these delicious berries. Beautiful additions to your yard or landscape, these upright growing shrubs are attractive in bloom and a striking sight when fruiting, with large clusters of pink, red, white or black berries cascading down the heavily laden branches. Currants are rich in antioxidants and have a much higher vitamin C content than oranges. Plant one of each color!
Site and Soil: Moderately fertile, well-drained soil with full to partial sun.
Pollination Requirements: Self-fertile
Hardiness: Hardy to minus 40° F.
Bearing Age: 2-3 years after planting.
Size at Maturity: 3-5 ft. in height and 3-5 ft. in width
Bloom Time: April-May
Ripening Time: July
Taste: Sweet-tart
Fruit Color: Bright red
Pests & Diseases: Red Lake is fairly resistant to most insect and fungal pests of the genus Ribes.
USDA Zone: 3-7