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Description
Ribes Glandulosum, commonly known as the Sticky Currant, is a deciduous shrub that belongs to the Grossulariaceae family. It is native to western North America and can grow up to 1-2 meters tall. This shrub produces small, fragrant flowers in the spring, followed by juicy, edible berries in the summer. The Ribes Glandulosum is a popular choice for gardens and landscaping due to its attractive appearance and low maintenance requirements.
Taxonomic Information
| Domain | Eukaryota |
| Kingdom | Plantae |
| Phylum | Spermatophyta |
| Class | Magnoliopsida |
| Order | Saxifragales |
| Family | Grossulariaceae |
| Genus | Ribes |
Appearance
The Ribes Glandulosum has an upright growth habit with a rounded shape. Its leaves are dark green and have a slightly glossy appearance. The flowers are small, pink or white, and are arranged in clusters. The fruits are black or dark purple, 6-10 mm in diameter, and have a sticky texture. The sticky coating on the berries is a natural defense mechanism to protect them from birds and insects. The Ribes Glandulosum is a beautiful addition to any garden or landscape, especially in the spring when it is in full bloom.
Care Guide
The Ribes Glandulosum is a low maintenance shrub that is easy to care for. Here are some tips to help you keep your Sticky Currant healthy:
- Water: Water your Ribes Glandulosum regularly, especially during dry spells. It prefers moist, well-drained soil.
- Fertilization: Fertilize your Ribes Glandulosum once a year in the spring with a balanced fertilizer.
- Soil: The Ribes Glandulosum prefers slightly acidic soil that is rich in organic matter.
- Sunlight: The Sticky Currant prefers full sun to partial shade. It can tolerate some shade, but too much shade can reduce fruit production.
- Hardiness Zones: The Ribes Glandulosum is hardy in USDA zones 4-9.
Common Pests & Diseases
The Ribes Glandulosum is generally resistant to pests and diseases. However, it can be susceptible to some common problems:
- Aphids: These small insects can suck the sap from the leaves, causing them to turn yellow and curl. Use insecticidal soap to control aphids.
- Powdery mildew: This fungal disease can cause a white, powdery coating on the leaves. Remove infected leaves and use a fungicide to control powdery mildew.
- Leaf spot: This fungal disease can cause brown or black spots on the leaves. Remove infected leaves and use a fungicide to control leaf spot.
Habitat
The Ribes Glandulosum is native to western North America and can be found in a variety of habitats, including forests, meadows, and rocky slopes. It prefers moist, well-drained soil and can tolerate some shade. The Sticky Currant is an important food source for birds and wildlife.
Question and Answer
Q: Is the Ribes Glandulosum edible?
A: Yes, the Ribes Glandulosum produces edible berries that are sweet and juicy.
Q: How tall can the Ribes Glandulosum grow?
A: The Ribes Glandulosum can grow up to 1-2 meters tall.
Q: What is the hardiness zone for the Ribes Glandulosum?
A: The Ribes Glandulosum is hardy in USDA zones 4-9.
Q: Does the Ribes Glandulosum attract wildlife?
A: Yes, the Ribes Glandulosum is an important food source for birds and wildlife.
Related Plants
- Ribes Aureum
- Ribes Divaricatum
- Ribes Lacustre
- Ribes Sanguineum
References
- “Ribes Glandulosum.” Missouri Botanical Garden. Accessed August 30, 2021. http://www.missouribotanicalgarden.org/plantfinder/plantdetails.aspx?kempercode=c810.
- “Ribes Glandulosum.” Plant Database. Accessed August 30, 2021. https://pfaf.org/user/plant.aspx?LatinName=Ribes+glandulosum.
- “Sticky Currant (Ribes Glandulosum).” Montana Field Guide. Accessed August 30, 2021. https://fieldguide.mt.gov/species/136383.
