Fruit Type: Red Currant
Botanical Name: Ribes rubrum
Fruit Colour: Bright red
Growth Habit: Upright, deciduous shrub
Final Height: Approx. 1.5–1.8 m
Exposure: Full sun to light shade
Soil Type: Fertile, well-drained, evenly moist soil
Pollination: Self-fertile, improved yields with cross-pollination
Hardiness: Suitable for outdoor growing once established

Red currant (Ribes rubrum) is a traditional fruit shrub valued for its bright summer harvest, attractive foliage, and dependable performance in temperate gardens. It has long been cultivated throughout Europe for both culinary use and ornamental appeal.

The plant produces hanging clusters of translucent bright red berries with a lively sweet-tart flavour. The fruit is well suited to fresh eating as well as sauces, preserves, syrups, juices, and summer desserts. Ripening typically occurs from mid to late summer, making red currants one of the earlier soft fruits of the season.

Red currants grow as upright deciduous shrubs with palmately lobed leaves and a naturally tidy structure. Mature plants generally reach between 1.5 and 1.8 metres in height, with a spread of approximately 0.5 to 1 metre. They are well suited to garden beds, edible borders, or larger containers.

For best results, plant in full sun to light shade in fertile, well-drained soil that remains evenly moist. The shrub adapts to a range of soil types and benefits from good air circulation to support healthy growth.

Red currants are self-fertile and capable of producing fruit independently, although planting multiple varieties can improve yield and berry size through cross-pollination. Bees and other pollinators contribute to optimal fruit set.

We select our fruit plants with winter hardiness in mind, ensuring suitability for outdoor cultivation in our climate once properly established.

For gardeners seeking a reliable fruit shrub that combines ornamental structure with bright red summer berries and refreshing flavour, red currant remains a classic and productive choice.