American Blackcurrant

Ribes americanum

Physical Characteristics

Ribes americanum is a deciduous Shrub growing to 1.8 m (6ft). See above for USDA hardiness. It is hardy to UK zone 2. It is in flower from April to June. The species is hermaphrodite (has both male and female organs) and is pollinated by Insects. Suitable for: light (sandy), medium (loamy) and heavy (clay) soils and prefers well-drained soil. Suitable pH: mildly acid, neutral and basic (mildly alkaline) soils. It can grow in semi-shade (light woodland) or no shade. It prefers moist soil.

Distribution

Eastern N. America - Saskatchewan to New Brunswick, south to Maryland and West Virginia.

Habitats

Woodland Garden Sunny Edge; Dappled Shade;

Edible Uses

Edible Parts: Fruit Edible Uses: Fruit - raw or cooked[2, 61, 85, 101, 257]. They are used in jellies, jams, pies and preserves, and can be dried for later use[183, 257]. Comments on the flavour of these blackcurrants vary considerably, with one report saying they are esteemed as an article of diet[257], another that they have a fair flavour[2], another that they are watery and insipid[2] and others that they have a distinct musky flavour and are only palatable when cooked[159, 183]. The fruit is up to 10mm in diameter[235].

Medicinal Uses

Anthelmintic Antiinflammatory Kidney Vermifuge Women's complaints A decoction of the roots has been used to treat kidney problems[213, 257] and also to expel worms[222]. It has been used by women to treat uterine problems[257]. The root bark is anthelmintic[257]. The poulticed root bark has been applied to swellings[222, 257].

Known Hazards

None known