Ribes americanum
TAXONOMY
FamilyGrossulariaceae
GenusRibes
Zone3
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Ribes americanum, commonly known as American black currant, is a deciduous shrub native to North America. It typically grows in moist, wooded areas and along stream banks. The plant produces clusters of small, black berries that are edible and often used in jams and jellies. It has a dormancy period during the winter months.
ALSO KNOWN AS
American Black Currant
Coreosma americana
Coreosma americana var. mesochora
Coreosma florida
Ribes billenei
Ribes campanulatum
Ribes dillenii
Ribes floridum
Ribes floridum var. grandiflorum
Ribes intermedium
Ribesium campanulatum
Ribesium dillenii
Ribes nigrum var. pennyslvanicum
Ribes pensylvanicum
Ribes recurvatum
Ribes schmidtianum
OVERVIEW
VPDCalculate
WaterWet
SoilLoamy
LightIndirect Bright (6 Hours)
Temperature18° C
Humidity60%
Dormancy4 Months
pH6.5
Pressure1,013 mbar
DETAILS
Care Instructions
American black currant prefers moderate temperatures and indirect bright light. It thrives in environments with moderate humidity and should be watered regularly to keep the soil evenly moist. The plant can tolerate a range of temperatures but prefers temperate climates.Soil
Ribes americanum prefers loamy soil that is well-draining yet retains moisture. The soil should be rich in organic matter to support healthy growth. Ensure the soil pH is slightly acidic to neutral for optimal growth.Fertilizer
Use a balanced fertilizer with an N-P-K ratio of 10-10-10. Fertilize the plant in early spring before new growth begins and again in mid-summer. Avoid over-fertilizing as it can lead to excessive foliage growth at the expense of fruit production.Repotting
Repotting is generally not necessary for outdoor shrubs. However, if growing in a container, repot every 2-3 years to refresh the soil and provide more space for root growth. Repot in early spring before new growth starts.Propagation
Propagate Ribes americanum through hardwood cuttings taken in late fall or early winter. Plant the cuttings in a well-draining soil mix and keep them moist until roots develop. Alternatively, the plant can be propagated by layering in early spring.Pruning
Prune the plant in late winter or early spring before new growth begins. Remove any dead or diseased wood and thin out crowded branches to improve air circulation. Regular pruning helps maintain the plant's shape and encourages healthy growth.Toxicity
Ribes americanum is not toxic to pets or humans. The berries are edible and can be consumed fresh or used in culinary applications. However, always ensure proper identification before consuming any wild berries.Additional
American black currant is a valuable plant for wildlife, providing food and habitat for various bird species. It is also resistant to many common pests and diseases, making it a relatively low-maintenance shrub for temperate gardens.REVOLUTIONIZE YOUR PLANT CARE
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