Golden Currant
A beautiful and useful shrub native across North America, the golden currant is a harbinger of spring in many parts of the continent when its bright and fragrant yellow flowers begin to open. The golden currants that follow have long been cherished as a wild edible and are one of the easiest to grow fruiting shrubs. Another bonus for the golden currant, it has no spines!
A favorite fruit for many people around the world, most of us Americans have not had the opportunity to taste these delicious berries. Beautiful additions to your yard or landscape, these upright growing shrubs are attractive in bloom and a striking sight when fruiting, with large clusters of pink, red, white or black berries cascading down the heavily laden branches. Currants are rich in antioxidants and have a much higher vitamin C content than oranges
Latin Name: Ribes aureum
Site and Soil: Currants like 1/2 day to full sun and well-drained soil.
Rootstock Description: Self rooted
Pollination Requirements: Self-fertile.
Hardiness: Hardy to minus 40° F.
Bearing Age: 1-2 years after planting
Size at Maturity: 3-5 ft. in height
Bloom Time: March-April
Ripening Time: July
Yield: 10-20 lbs.
Pests & Diseases: Currants are not bothered by significant pest or disease problems in our region. White Pine Blister Rust can be a problem for Black Currants in certain eastern and Midwestern states. Check with your extension service for details.
USDA Zone: 3-7