Alpine Currant
Ribes alpinumfam. Rosaceae
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Pl. 372A — Ribes alpinum
Ribes alpinumRibes alpinumRibes alpinumRibes alpinumRibes alpinumRibes alpinumRibes alpinumRibes alpinumRibes alpinumRibes alpinumRibes alpinumRibes alpinumRibes alpinumRibes alpinum
IOverview
Overview
Alpine Currant (Ribes alpinum) is a shrub belonging to the Rosaceae family and is native to regions such as Altay, Kazakhstan, Kirgizstan, Xinjiang, Albania, Austria, Baltic States, and Belarus. This plant thrives in moist, light to heavy soil with a pH of 7.5–8, making it adaptable but preferring slightly alkaline conditions. Known for its edible fruit, the Alpine Currant can grow up to 1.2 meters tall and is distinguished by its ability to tolerate hardiness zones 2-7, thriving in cooler climates. Its light energy requirement suggests it may prefer partial shade or dappled sunlight, making it a versatile addition to gardens and landscapes.
Quick answers
What is Alpine Currant?
Alpine Currant (Ribes alpinum) is a shrub belonging to the Rosaceae family and is native to regions such as Altay, Kazakhstan, Kirgizstan, Xinjiang, Albania, Austria, Baltic States, and Belarus. This plant thrives in moist, light to heavy soil with a pH of 7.
Growingconditions · propagation · uses
VCultivation
Cultivation
Alpine Currant thrives in light to partial shade with a moisture-retentive yet well-draining soil type—preferably light (sandy), medium, or heavy (clay). It is hardy from zones 2-7 and grows to about 1.2 meters as a shrub. Ensure the soil pH is between 7.5 and 8 for optimal growth. Propagate through cuttings or seeds. Regular watering is essential, especially in drier periods, but avoid overwatering to prevent root rot.
Light
6/10
Water
Moist
Soil
Light (sandy), Medium, Heavy (clay)
Hardiness
2-7
Habit
Shrub
Mature size
1.2 m tall
Soil pH
7.5–8
For first-time growers
How to grow Alpine Currant for the first time
8steps
Start with Alpine Currant by preparing the soil and planting it in early spring for a successful beginner’s garden.
- 1
What you'll need
Alpine currant plants, gardening gloves, trowel, watering can.
- 2
Best time to plant
Plant Alpine Currant in early spring or late autumn when the soil is moist and cool.
- 3
Soil and container prep
Choose a location with well-draining soil that's light (sandy), medium, or heavy. Ensure the pH is between 7.5–8.
- 4
Sowing or transplanting
Transplant young Alpine Currant plants from nurseries into your garden or containers.
- 5
First two weeks
Water regularly to keep the soil moist but not waterlogged, especially during dry spells.
- 6
Ongoing care
Prune in late winter to maintain shape and remove dead wood. Fertilize once a year with compost or organic matter.
- 7
Harvest or pruning
After the first two years, prune annually for better fruiting and plant health. Harvest fruits when they are fully ripe.
- 8
Common mistakes
Overwatering, planting in poorly draining soil, neglecting to prune, using chemical fertilizers.
VIEdible & utility
Edible & utility
Edible parts:Fruit
Edible uses: The Alpine Currant's fruit is edible and can be eaten raw or used in various preparations. Typically, the fruits are consumed fresh but can also be dried for later use. They add a tart flavor to jams, jellies, and other preserves.
Other uses:HedgerowGround cover
Contextrange · companions · related
VIIDistribution
30 native · 0 introduced
Distribution
30 native · 0 introducedDistribution across3 continents· 30 native
Europe20 regions
native (20)AlbaniaAustriaBelarusBelgiumBulgariaDenmarkFinlandFranceGermanyGreeceHungaryItalyNorwayPolandRomaniaRussiaSpainSwedenSwitzerlandUnited Kingdom
Asia3 regions
native (3)ChinaIranKazakhstan
Africa1 region
native (1)Morocco
Broader regions
native:Altay, Kirgizstan, Baltic States, Czechoslovakia, Transcaucasus
IXSpecimen gallery
1 image
Specimen gallery
1 imageXSee also
8 related
See also
8 relatedPlants you might compare or use together — scored by shared family (Rosaceae), common use cases, and growing requirements.
same family · Rosaceae
Botanical relatives — often share phytochemistry + growing needs.
XI
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Companion planting
Compare with similar plants
Growing zone
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