Clove Currant (Ribes aureum)

Clove Currant, a small to medium-sized deciduous shrub native to Canada and the central United States, is an ornamental plant highly regarded for its drought tolerance and ability to thrive in wildlife gardens. This species, belonging to the Ribes genus, reaches a height of 2-3 meters. Its leaves are green, semi-leathery with 3 or 5 lobes, and exhibit a stunning red hue in autumn. Clove Currant blooms in spring, showcasing racemes of golden yellow flowers, which are often fragrant, reminiscent of cloves or vanilla. The flowers can vary in color from cream to reddish, appearing in clusters of up to 15.

The plant produces berries about 1 centimeter in diameter, maturing to amber yellow or black. The species is adaptable, often found near gravel banks and plains around flowing water. It serves as a vital source of nectar and pollen for pollinators like hummingbirds, butterflies, and bees, and its fruit is consumed by various birds and mammals. However, it's worth noting that this currant species is susceptible to white pine blister rust