Ribes alpinum
Alpine Currant
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Alpine Currant (Ribes alpinum) - Description
Ribes alpinum, or Alpine Currant, is a small deciduous shrub native to central and northern Europe from Finland and Norway south to the Alps and Pyrenees; in the south of its range, it is confined to high altitudes. It is scarce in western Europe, in Britain being confined to a small number of sites in northern England and Wales.
Alpine Currant (Ribes alpinum) - Blooming
Blooms clusters of hanging, creamy-white flowers in early spring. Followed by midsummer fruits.
Alpine Currant (Ribes alpinum) - Growth
Thrives in full sun. Grows best in the cool, humid regions of North America. Currants reach 3-5 feet tall and wide. Foliage drops in early fall after turning color to orange or red. Gooseberries are similar to currants, except they bear larger fruits and have thorny stems. Jostaberry is a hybrid of gooseberry and black currant.
Alpine Currant (Ribes alpinum) - Planting
Set out nursery-grown container plants in late winter or early spring when the soil is rich and well-draining. Can also propagate from hardwood cuttings removed in winter. Ribes sp. self-pollinate, but yield is better with cross pollination. Best to plant more than one shrub.
Alpine Currant (Ribes alpinum) - Pest
Any cane boring insects should be removed immediately by pruning away any infested stems. Also, prone to scale, aphids, and caterpillars.
Alpine Currant (Ribes alpinum) - Interesting facts
The berries of members of the genus Ribes contain an essential omega-6 fatty acid called gamma linolenic acid, or GLA. This compound has disputed medicinal properties including anti-inflammatory and skin irritation relief capabilities. Some even claim that the compound relieves the symptoms of pre-menstrual syndrome.
Alpine Currant (Ribes alpinum) - Soil and irrigation
Grows best with well-drained loam that is rich, moist, and slightly acidic. Avoid soggy, heavy soils. If your soil has poor drainage or is heavy clay, it is advised to plant in raised beds or on soil mounds. Provide water on a regular basis, but not excessively.
