Ribes nigrum Ben Sarek (Black Currant)

Ribes nigrum 'Ben Sarek' is a compact Black Currant for culinary or dessert use. This deciduous shrub produces clusters of pale green flowers in spring. They are followed by a heavy crop of drooping clusters of large, edible, shiny black currants which ripen in early-mid summer. Rich in color, nutrients and flavor, the fruits can be eaten fresh from the shrub or can be used in sophisticated foods, drinks and desserts. The attractive foliage of ovate, 3-5 lobed, blue-green leaves turns yellow in fall. This plant is self-fertile and resistant to powdery mildews. Perfect for the home garden, its yields are quite high for such a compact plant.

• Grows up to 3-4 ft. tall and wide (90-120 cm).
• A full sun to part shade lover, this plant is easily grown in organically rich, medium moisture, well-drained soils. Prefers full sun but appreciates some shade in hot summer areas. Site in a location protected from strong winter winds and frost pockets.
• May take 4-5 years for the plant to become well-established and reach full fruit-bearing potential.
• Attracts scores of butterflies and birds but is ignored by rabbits.
• Keep an eye out for gall mites, gall midges and aphids.
• Prune as needed during the dormant season.
• Propagate by hardwood cuttings.