Black Currant
ribes lacustre
Also known as: ["Swamp Currant","Poison Currant"]
Overview
A deciduous shrub native to North America, known for its dark berries and aromatic foliage.
Benefits & Perks
["edible fruits","medicinal use","wildlife attractant (bees, butterflies, birds)"]
Botanical Classification
| Phylum: | Magnoliophyta |
| Class: | Magnoliopsida |
| Order: | Saxifragales |
| Family: | Grossulariaceae |
| Genus: | Ribes |
| Botanical Name: | Ribes lacustre |
Plant Characteristics
Basic Information
- Category: Fruits
- Suitable Location: border plantings, woodland edges, or naturalized areas
- Suitable For:
- Is Weed: No
- Allergenicity: low
Environmental Needs
- Climate: {"temperatureRange":"−40–40°C"}
- Hardiness: {"zones":"3–7"}
- Misting: rarely required, only if ambient humidity is very low
- Drainage: Moderate to fast-draining; avoid waterlogged conditions.
- Soil Type: Well-draining loam with organic matter; tolerates slightly acidic to neutral soils.
Maintenance Level
- Maintenance Level: moderate
- Toughness Level: moderate
- Pruning Frequency: Annually in late winter or early spring before new growth begins.
- Pruning Intensity: Moderate; remove about one-third of the oldest canes each year.
Care Details
Ideal Sunlight Coverage:
Full sun to partial shade (4–6 hours of direct sunlight daily). Tolerates light shade but produces more fruit in full sun.
Sunlight Tolerance Tips:
Acclimate plants gradually to intense sunlight; protect from harsh afternoon sun in hot climates; ensure good air circulation to prevent leaf scorch.
Care Requirements
Care Difficulty
moderatemoderate
Sunlight
full sun to partial shade
Rotate plant for even light exposure; use shade cloth in extreme heat; avoid placing in drafty areas.
Watering
every 7–10 days during active growth, reduce in winter
Water thoroughly but infrequently to encourage deep root growth; ensure soil dries slightly between waterings; avoid waterlogging.
Soil
well-drained, slightly acidic loam
pH: 6.0–7.0 (slightly acidic to neutral).
Ensure good drainage; amend with organic matter; avoid compacted soil.
Temperature
Hardy in USDA zones 3–7; tolerates cold winters and moderate summers. Prefers temperatures between 60–75°F (15–24°C) during active growth.
Protect from late frosts; avoid placing in hot, stagnant areas; adjust watering with temperature changes.
Fertilizing
every 4–6 weeks during spring and summer
Fertilize sparingly; avoid late-season feeding to prevent tender growth; water before and after fertilizing.
Propagation
Methods
Softwood cuttings taken in late spring or early summer; division of established clumps can also be effective.
Step-by-Step Propagation Guide
- Take 4–6 inch cuttings.
- Remove lower leaves.
- Dip in rooting hormone.
- Plant in medium.
- Keep moist and warm.
Best Time: Late spring to early summer when new growth is semi-hardened.
Environment
Warm, humid conditions with indirect light; maintain consistent moisture.
Medium
Well-draining potting mix with perlite or sand; can also root in water initially.
Hormone
Rooting hormone is recommended to improve success rates.
Timeline
Roots typically form in 4–8 weeks; plants may take a full season to establish.
Tools Needed
Pruning shears, rooting hormone, small pots, well-draining medium, misting spray bottle.
Quick Tips
Use healthy, disease-free cuttings; maintain high humidity; avoid direct sunlight during rooting.
Pruning & Repotting
Pruning Guide
Method
Cut canes back to the ground; thin out crowded areas; shape as needed for aesthetics or fruiting.
Pruning Plan
Prune to maintain shape, improve air circulation, and encourage fruit production. Remove old or weak canes to stimulate new growth.
Tools
Pruning shears, loppers, gloves, disinfectant for tools.
Checklist
Disinfect tools; prune before bud break; remove dead/diseased wood; thin crowded areas; shape plant.
Repotting Guide
Best Season
Early spring before active growth begins.
Pot Size
For container-grown plants, move up one pot size (2–3 inches larger in diameter).
Method
Divide clumps carefully; replant divisions at the same depth; use fresh, well-draining soil.
Suggestions
Generally not required unless grown in containers. Outdoor plants benefit from occasional division every 3–5 years.
Checklist
Prepare new pot with drainage holes; use fresh soil mix; water thoroughly after repotting; provide shade for recovery.
Advanced Care Tips
Watering Mastery
Watering Checklist
Check soil moisture with a finger; water deeply; ensure proper drainage; adjust for season.
How to Apply Water Properly
Water at the base of the plant, ensuring moisture reaches the root zone. Apply until water drains from the bottom, then allow the soil to dry before the next watering.
Watering Schedule Tips
Water deeply once per week during active growth, reducing frequency to every 2–3 weeks in winter. Adjust based on rainfall and soil moisture retention.
Soil Improvement
Add compost or well-rotted manure to enhance fertility and drainage; incorporate perlite or sand if soil is heavy.
Temperature Stress Management
Signs of Temperature Issues
Leaf scorch or wilting in excessive heat; delayed bud break or dieback in cold stress; reduced fruit set in temperature extremes.
Cold Stress
Low temperatures can cause dieback of tender growth, delayed flowering, or reduced fruit production, though established plants are generally cold-hardy.
Solution: Mulch heavily around the base in winter; protect from harsh winds; avoid overwatering before freezes to prevent root rot.
Hot Stress
Excessive heat can lead to leaf scorch, wilting, and reduced fruit quality, especially if combined with drought stress.
Solution: Provide afternoon shade; increase watering frequency; use mulch to retain soil moisture; ensure good air circulation.
Fertilizing Guide
Fertilizing Checklist
Use balanced fertilizer; apply in early spring; avoid over-fertilization; water thoroughly after application.
Fertilizing Method
Use a balanced, slow-release fertilizer in early spring before new growth emerges. Apply again after fruit set if needed. Avoid high-nitrogen fertilizers.
Common Problems & Solutions
Toxicity Warning
Cats
Non-toxicRibes lacustre is not considered toxic to cats. The fruits are safe for consumption in moderation, and the plant does not pose a significant risk to feline health.
⚡ Toxic If:
Generally non-toxic
Dogs
Non-toxicRibes lacustre is not considered toxic to dogs. The fruits are safe for consumption in moderation, and the plant does not pose a significant risk to canine health.
⚡ Toxic If:
Generally non-toxic
Humans
Non-toxicRibes lacustre, commonly known as black currant, is generally considered non-toxic to humans. The plant is often cultivated for its edible fruits, which are rich in vitamins and antioxidants.
⚡ Toxic If:
Generally non-toxic
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Are the berries of Ribes lacustre edible?
A: Yes, the berries are edible and commonly used for jams, jellies, and culinary purposes.
Q: Does Ribes lacustre attract wildlife?
A: Yes, it attracts bees, butterflies, and birds due to its nectar-rich flowers and berries.
Q: How should Ribes lacustre be cared for?
A: It requires moderate watering, partial shade, and well-drained soil. Pruning is recommended to maintain shape and encourage fruiting.
Quick Reference
| Family: | Grossulariaceae |
| Care: | moderate |
| Light: | full sun to partial shade |
| Water: | every 7–10 days during activ |
Get Expert Care Tips
Download the Plantious app for personalized care reminders and plant identification!
Google Play App Store
