Common name: 'Red Lake' Currant
Scientific Name:
Family: Grossulariaceae
Genus: Ribes
Species: rubrum 'Red Lake'
Hardiness Zone: 3 to 7
Height: 3 to 5 ft
Width: 3 to 5 ft
Description:
Red Lake currant is grown primarily for its fruit production of tart, red currants (although it can be used as an ornamental hedge). They are usually used in cooking, although they can be eaten directly off the bush when ripe. It ideally likes rich and well-drained soil and will do best when summers do not get too hot and some afternoon sun is available. They will often attract birds and are a good shrub for gardeners with rabbit problems.
All plants in the Ribes genus are alternate hosts for white pine blister rust, so caution in planting should be used when in proximity to many white pines or in areas where WPBR is known to be present.
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