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Description
Ribes Rubrum Red Lake, commonly known as the Red Lake Currant, is a deciduous shrub that belongs to the Grossulariaceae family. It is a cultivar of the Ribes Rubrum species and is known for its bright red berries, which are tart and juicy. The shrub can grow up to 5 feet in height and width and is a popular plant for home gardeners due to its ornamental value and edible fruit.
Taxonomic Information
| Domain | Eukarya |
|---|---|
| Kingdom | Plantae |
| Phylum | Tracheophyta |
| Class | Magnoliopsida |
| Order | Saxifragales |
| Family | Grossulariaceae |
| Genus | Ribes |
Appearance
The Red Lake Currant features bright green foliage that turns yellow in the fall. Its flowers are small and pinkish-red, and they bloom in the spring. The fruit is bright red, round, and covered in a powdery bloom. The shrub has a dense, upright growth habit that makes it an excellent choice for hedges or screens. It is also a popular choice for container gardening.
Care Guide
The Red Lake Currant requires regular watering, especially during the growing season. It prefers well-draining soil that is rich in organic matter. Fertilize the plant in the spring with a balanced fertilizer. The shrub prefers full sun to partial shade and is hardy in USDA zones 3 to 7.
Common Pests & Diseases
The Red Lake Currant is susceptible to aphids, spider mites, and whiteflies. To prevent these pests, use insecticidal soap or neem oil. The shrub is also susceptible to powdery mildew, which can be prevented by ensuring good air circulation around the plant and avoiding overhead watering.
Habitat
The Red Lake Currant is native to northern Europe and Asia. It prefers cool climates and is commonly found in gardens and landscapes throughout the United States and Canada.
Question and Answer
Q: How long does it take for the Red Lake Currant to produce fruit?
A: The Red Lake Currant will typically produce fruit in 2-3 years after planting.
Q: How should I prune my Red Lake Currant?
A: Prune your Red Lake Currant in late winter or early spring before new growth begins. Remove any dead or diseased wood and thin out crowded branches to improve air circulation.
Q: Can the Red Lake Currant be grown in containers?
A: Yes, the Red Lake Currant can be grown in containers. Ensure that the container is at least 18 inches in diameter and provides good drainage.
Q: How often should I fertilize my Red Lake Currant?
A: Fertilize your Red Lake Currant once a year in the spring with a balanced fertilizer.
Related Plants
- Ribes Aureum, Golden Currant
- Ribes Nigrum, Black Currant
- Ribes Uva-Crispa, Gooseberry
- Ribes Sanguineum, Redflower Currant
References
- “Ribes Rubrum ‘Red Lake’ – Plant Finder.” Missouri Botanical Garden, www.missouribotanicalgarden.org/PlantFinder/PlantFinderDetails.aspx?taxonid=283536&isprofile=0&basic=ribes%20red%20lake. Accessed 24 March 2021.
- “Ribes Rubrum.” Plant Encyclopedia, www.plantencyclopedia.net/ribes-rubrum/. Accessed 24 March 2021.
- “Ribes Rubrum Red Lake Currant.” North Carolina State University, https://plants.ces.ncsu.edu/plants/ribes-rubrum-red-lake-currant/. Accessed 24 March 2021.
