Contents
Description
Ribes Nigrum Big Ben, also known as Blackcurrant Big Ben, is a deciduous shrub that belongs to the Grossulariaceae family. It is a cultivar of the Ribes Nigrum species, which is native to Europe and Asia. This plant is popular for its blackcurrant flavor and medicinal properties. It grows up to 5 feet tall and 4 feet wide, producing dark green leaves and clusters of small flowers. The fruit is a deep purple color, and it is rich in vitamin C and antioxidants.
Taxonomic Information
| Domain | Eukaryota |
|---|---|
| Kingdom | Plantae |
| Phylum | Spermatophyta |
| Class | Magnoliopsida |
| Order | Saxifragales |
| Family | Grossulariaceae |
| Genus | Ribes |
| Species | Ribes Nigrum |
| Cultivar | Big Ben |
Appearance
Ribes Nigrum Big Ben has a rounded shape and grows up to 5 feet tall and 4 feet wide. Its leaves are dark green, lobed, and toothed, and they can grow up to 4 inches long. The flowers are small and greenish-yellow, and they grow in clusters. The fruit is a deep purple color, and it is round and small, measuring around 1 cm in diameter. It has a sweet and tart flavor and is commonly used in jams, jellies, and syrups.
Care Guide
Ribes Nigrum Big Ben is a hardy plant that is easy to care for. Here are some tips on how to take care of this plant:
- Water: Water regularly, especially during the growing season. Keep the soil moist but not waterlogged.
- Fertilization: Fertilize in early spring with a balanced fertilizer.
- Soil: Plant in well-draining soil that is rich in organic matter.
- Sunlight: Plant in full sun or partial shade.
- Hardiness Zones: Ribes Nigrum Big Ben is hardy in USDA zones 3 to 7.
Common Pests & Diseases
Ribes Nigrum Big Ben is relatively pest and disease resistant. However, it can be susceptible to the following:
- Aphids: These small insects can suck the sap from the plant, causing leaves to curl and turn yellow. Use insecticidal soap to control aphids.
- Sawfly Larvae: These caterpillar-like larvae can feed on the leaves of the plant, causing defoliation. Handpick and destroy the larvae or use an insecticide.
- Rust: This fungal disease can cause yellow-orange spots on the leaves. Remove infected leaves and use a fungicide.
Habitat
Ribes Nigrum Big Ben is native to Europe and Asia but can be grown in many regions with suitable climates. It prefers cool climates and can tolerate frost and snow. It grows best in well-draining soil that is rich in organic matter.
Question and Answer
Q: Is Ribes Nigrum Big Ben a good source of vitamin C?
A: Yes, Ribes Nigrum Big Ben is a good source of vitamin C, with 100 grams of fruit providing around 200% of the daily recommended intake.
Q: Can Ribes Nigrum Big Ben be grown in containers?
A: Yes, Ribes Nigrum Big Ben can be grown in containers, but make sure the container is large enough to accommodate the plant’s root system.
Q: How often should Ribes Nigrum Big Ben be fertilized?
A: Ribes Nigrum Big Ben should be fertilized once a year in early spring with a balanced fertilizer.
Q: When is the best time to harvest Ribes Nigrum Big Ben fruit?
A: The best time to harvest Ribes Nigrum Big Ben fruit is when it is fully ripe and has a deep purple color.
Related Plants
- Ribes Aureum
- Ribes Cereum
- Ribes Hirtellum
- Ribes Rubrum
References
- University of Minnesota Extension. (n.d.). Currants and Gooseberries for the Home Garden. Retrieved from https://extension.umn.edu/fruit/growing-currants-and-gooseberries-home-garden
- Missouri Botanical Garden. (n.d.). Ribes Nigrum ‘Big Ben’. Retrieved from http://www.missouribotanicalgarden.org/PlantFinder/PlantFinderDetails.aspx?taxonid=276601&isprofile=0&basic=ribes%20nigrum
- RHS. (n.d.). Ribes Nigrum ‘Big Ben’ (Blackcurrant ‘Big Ben’). Retrieved from https://www.rhs.org.uk/Plants/122842/Ribes-nigrum-Big-Ben/Details
