American Black Currant (Ribes americanum)

American Black Currant is a native North American shrub known for its tasty black berries and wildlife value. Found throughout Canada and the northern United States, this hardy plant thrives in a variety of settings, from woodlands to wetlands, and is well-adapted to cold climates. It grows to a mature height and spread of about 3-6 feet, forming a dense, arching shrub with deeply lobed, dark green leaves that provide a lovely texture in the landscape.

In spring, American Black Currant produces clusters of small, fragrant yellow flowers that attract pollinators like bees and butterflies. By mid to late summer, these flowers give way to black berries that are a good edible, with a mildly sweet flavor. The berries are great for fresh eating, making preserves, or adding to baked goods, and are also highly valued by birds and other wildlife.

American Black Currant prefers full sun to partial shade and grows well in moist, well-drained soils. It is relatively resistant to diseases like powdery mildew and less prone to white pine blister rust than some other currant species, making it a reliable choice for naturalized plantings or edible landscapes.

Cold Hardiness Zone: 3
Source: Manitoba
Mature Size: 3-6 ft tall and wide.