Black Currant

(Ribes americanum)

Other Names:
American black currant, eastern black currant, wild black currant

Range:


Family:
Grossulariaceae - Currant Family

Growth Type:
Perennial deciduous shrub

Height:
2 - 5 feet tall

Leaves:
The deciduous leaves are approximately 3 inches across and have 3-5 lobes. The leaves turn red in the autumn.

Stem/Trunk:
The branches are erect and lack spines or thorns.

Root:
Spreading root system

Flower Season:
Late sprint to early summer

Flower Appearance:
The inflorescence is a spreading or drooping raceme of up to 15 flowers. Each flower has reflexed white or greenish sepals a few millimeters long and smaller whitish petals.

Seed/Fruit:
The fruit is a smooth rounded black berry about a centimeter 1/4 inch wide. The plant reproduces mainly by seed.

Miscellaneous characteristics:
The shade tolerant R. americanum may form dense thickets.

Habitat:
From bogs and marshes to plains, meadows, and mountains, this plant can be found growing in the understory in just about any habitat.

Parts Used:
Fruit

Culinary Uses:
Once cooked, the fruit can be eaten.

The following text is meant for informational purposes only. It is not meant to diagnose or treat any illness or injury. Always consult with a physician or other qualified medical care provider concerning the diagnosis and treatment of any illness or injury.

Medicinal Uses:
N/A

Medicinal Actions:
N/A