Ribes Nigrum

Description

Ribes Nigrum, commonly known as blackcurrant, is a deciduous shrub belonging to the Grossulariaceae family. This shrub can grow up to 5 feet in height and 6 feet in width. It produces small, five-lobed, dark green leaves that are coated with small hairs. The flowers are greenish-yellow and appear in the spring. The fruit is a small, black, shiny berry that is rich in Vitamin C and used for making jams, jellies, and syrups.

Taxonomic Information

Appearance

The blackcurrant shrub has a rounded shape with an open habit. The leaves are small, dark green, and coated with small hairs. The flowers are greenish-yellow and appear in clusters in the spring. The fruit is a small, black, shiny berry that is rich in Vitamin C. The fruit clusters grow on the branches and can be harvested in the summer.

Care Guide

Blackcurrants require well-draining soil that is rich in organic matter. They prefer full sun but can tolerate partial shade. The soil should be kept moist but not waterlogged. Fertilize the plant in the early spring with a balanced fertilizer. Prune the plant in late winter or early spring to remove any dead or weak branches.

Water

Blackcurrants require regular watering to keep the soil moist but not waterlogged. Water the plant deeply once a week during the growing season. Reduce watering in the winter to prevent waterlogging.

Fertilization

Fertilize the plant in the early spring with a balanced fertilizer. Use a slow-release fertilizer or a liquid fertilizer diluted to half strength. Do not over-fertilize as this can cause the plant to produce too much foliage and not enough fruit.

Soil

Blackcurrants prefer well-draining soil that is rich in organic matter. The soil should have a pH of 6.5 to 7.0. If the pH is too low, add lime to the soil to raise the pH.

Sunlight

Blackcurrants prefer full sun but can tolerate partial shade. Plant the shrub in an area that receives at least 6 hours of sunlight per day.

Hardiness Zones

Blackcurrants are hardy in USDA zones 3 to 7.

Common Pests & Diseases

Blackcurrants are susceptible to several pests and diseases, including:

Aphids

Aphids can infest the plant and cause stunted growth and distorted leaves. Use insecticidal soap or neem oil to control the infestation.

Currant Worms

Currant worms can defoliate the plant and cause reduced fruit production. Use Bacillus thuringiensis or spinosad to control the infestation.

Powdery Mildew

Powdery mildew can appear on the leaves and cause them to curl and turn brown. Use a fungicide to control the infestation.

Habitat

Blackcurrants are native to Europe and Asia but are now grown worldwide. They prefer cool, moist climates and are commonly found in gardens, orchards, and hedgerows.

Question and Answer

Q: When is the best time to prune a blackcurrant shrub?

A: The best time to prune a blackcurrant shrub is in late winter or early spring before new growth appears. Prune any dead or weak branches and thin out any branches that are crossing or rubbing against each other.

Q: How do you propagate a blackcurrant shrub?

A: Blackcurrant shrubs can be propagated by taking cuttings in the early summer. Cut a 6-inch piece of new growth and remove the lower leaves. Dip the end of the cutting in rooting hormone and plant it in a pot filled with moist potting soil. Keep the cutting in a warm, humid location until roots appear.

Q: Can blackcurrants be grown in containers?

A: Yes, blackcurrants can be grown in containers as long as the container is at least 18 inches in diameter and 18 inches deep. Use a well-draining potting mix and water the plant regularly.

Q: How do you harvest blackcurrants?

A: Blackcurrants should be harvested when they are fully ripe and have turned black. Gently pull the fruit clusters off the branches and store them in the refrigerator or freezer.

Related Plants

• Ribes Aureum
• Ribes Cereum
• Ribes Grossularia
• Ribes Odoratum
• Ribes Rubrum

References

• “Ribes Nigrum.” Missouri Botanical Garden. Accessed 15 July 2021. <https://www.missouribotanicalgarden.org/PlantFinder/PlantFinderDetails.aspx?kempercode=b253>
• “Blackcurrants.” Royal Horticultural Society. Accessed 15 July 2021. <https://www.rhs.org.uk/plants/16617/ribes-nigrum/details>
• “Growing Blackcurrants.” Gardener’s World. Accessed 15 July 2021. <https://www.gardenersworld.com/how-to/grow-plants/how-to-grow-blackcurrants/>