Kantata 50 Black Currant

Kantata 50 Black Currant

Along with our other new varieties, we discovered the Kantata 50 black currant at the USDA Germplasm Repository in Corvallis, Oregon. Originally from the former Soviet Union, Kantata 50 black currant features heavy crops of large, juicy, sweet, low acid fruit, with the delectable black currant flavor. A good variety for the first time grower of black currant, the berries are great eaten fresh from this attractive, disease resistant, compact shrub.

Popular in much of the rest of the world but less common in the U.S., black currants are one of the most nutritious berries “currantly” overlooked by many Americans. Their unique flavor is excellent for fresh eating, juicing, or baking. Their nutritional profile in relation to other popular berries and fruits is very impressive. Black currants are particularly high in antioxidants and contain more vitamin C than oranges, and nine times the calcium, five times the iron, and four times the magnesium and potassium of blueberries. Their unique taste and health benefits should not be overlooked!

Latin Name: Ribes nigrum
Site and Soil: Currants like 1/2 day to full sun and well-drained soil.
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
Taste: Sweet, low acid, juicy
Fruit Size: Large
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: 3-8