Species Alpine currant

Alpine currant

Ribes alpinum

Alpine currant (Ribes alpinum) is a deciduous shrub native to Eurasia. It grows to a width of 2 feet, with an arching-spreading form and intricate branching. Its rich green leaves are a beautiful sight throughout the summer. In spring, clusters of bright yellow flowers appear - attracting flocks of birds and bees. In fall, berries in shades of shifting reds appear and are commonly used in jams and jellies. Hardy and easy to maintain, Alpine Currant is an ideal shrubbery for gardens with a cold or temperate climate.

Cycle:

Perennial

Watering:

Average

Propagation:

Cutting

Hardiness Zone:

2 - 7

Flowers:

Greenish yellow Flowers In Spring

Sun:

Full sun,part shade

Soil:

Well-drained

Fruits:

red,purple Fruits In Summer Ready In

Edible:

Yes

Leaf:

Yes

Leaf Color:

green,yellow

Growth Rate:

Moderate

Maintenance:

Low

Care Level:

Medium

watering

Alpine currant should be watered on a regular basis, as it enjoys moist soil. Water it deeply and thoroughly once a week during its active growing season, usually early spring through late summer. Soak the soil around the base of the plant, making sure the entire root system is moist. During the winter, reduce watering to once every 2 weeks or less. Be sure to adjust your watering frequency if there has been a period of excessive rainfall.

sunlight

Alpine currant (Ribes alpinum) needs a moderate amount of sunlight each day, ideally 2-4 hours of direct sunlight for optimal growth. The best time of day to provide sunlight is during the morning hours, when the sunlight is the softest and has the least potential to scorch or burn delicate leaves and stems. Furthermore, Alpine currant is tolerant of partial shade, so it can be grown successfully in areas where full sun all day is not possible.

pruning

Alpine currant (Ribes alpinum) may be pruned in late winter or early spring before new growth begins. Prune out any dead, broken or diseased branches with clean, sterilized pruning tools. Remove up to 1-third of the older, woody branches to encourage new growth. If the plant is overgrown, it can be pruned down to 1-2 feet from the ground. This will encourage a more dense growth habit. Follow up with regular deadheading of spent flowers and prune as needed to maintain desired shape.

Season

Fall
Winter
Spring
Summer
Sep
Oct
Nov
Dec
Jan
Feb
Mar
Apr
May
Jun
Jul
Aug
Starts Flowering

Alpine currant typically starts flowering in April.

Harvest Fruit

Harvesting of Ribes alpinum typically begins in July and continues through August.

Hardiness Map