Skunk Currant

Ribes glandulosum

Physical Characteristics

Ribes glandulosum is a deciduous Shrub growing to 0.4 m (1ft 4in) by 1 m (3ft 3in). See above for USDA hardiness. It is hardy to UK zone 2 and is not frost tender. 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

N. America - Newfoundland to British Columbia, south to North Carolina, Michigan and Wisconsin.

Habitats

Woodland Garden Sunny Edge; Dappled Shade; Ground Cover;

Edible Uses

Edible Parts: Fruit Edible Uses: Tea Fruit - raw or cooked[2, 85, 172, 257]. A blackcurrant[161], it is juicy and palatable[105]. Another report says that it has the odour of a skunk[43] and the skin has short bristly hairs[235]. The fruit is about 8mm in diameter[200]. The stems have been used to make a bitter tea[257].

Medicinal Uses

Miscellany A decoction of the stems, sometimes with wild red raspberry (Rubus idaeus strigosus), has been used to prevent the blood clotting after birth[257].

Known Hazards

None known