Wax currant
Ribes cereum
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Pl. F84F — Ribes cereum
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IOverview
Overview
Wax currant (Ribes cereum) is a perennial shrub native to the western United States and Canada, thriving in habitats from Alberta to Wyoming. Known for its edible flowers, leaves, and fruit, this plant can be found in various environments, including dry and moist soils with light to medium textures. Wax currant prefers full or partial sun and grows up to 1.8 meters tall. It is hardy in zones 4-8 and is adaptable to a soil pH range of 6.5–7.5. One distinctive feature of this plant is its ability to grow in diverse conditions, making it a versatile addition to gardens and landscapes.
Quick answers
What is Wax currant?
Wax currant (Ribes cereum) is a perennial shrub native to the western United States and Canada, thriving in habitats from Alberta to Wyoming. Known for its edible flowers, leaves, and fruit, this plant can be found in various environments, including dry and moist soils with light to medium textures.
Growingconditions · propagation · uses
VCultivation
Cultivation
Wax currant thrives in full to partial sun and prefers moist but well-drained soil with a pH between 6.5 and 7.5. It can tolerate dry conditions once established. Hardy in zones 4-8, this shrub is native to regions like Alberta, Arizona, British Columbia, California, Colorado, Idaho, Montana, Nebraska, and Oregon. Propagate via cuttings or seeds. With a height of up to 1.8 meters, wax currant is suitable for gardens where it can grow as a perennial. Ensure the soil is light (sandy), medium, or heavy (clay) for best results.
Light
Full sun, Partial sun/shade
Water
Dry, Moist
Soil
Light (sandy), Medium, Heavy (clay)
Hardiness
4-8
Life cycle
Perennial
Habit
Shrub
Mature size
1.8 m tall
Soil pH
6.5–7.5
For first-time growers
How to grow Wax currant for the first time
8steps
Start with planting a wax currant shrub in your garden for a simple and rewarding experience.
- 1
What you'll need
A wax currant shrub, gardening gloves, trowel, watering can.
- 2
Best time to plant
Plant in early spring or late fall when the soil is moist and cool.
- 3
Soil and container prep
Ensure the soil drains well; amend with compost if necessary. For containers, use a pot at least 30 cm wide and deep.
- 4
Sowing or transplanting
Transplant from a nursery pot to your garden bed, ensuring roots are spread out.
- 5
First two weeks
Water regularly to keep the soil moist but not waterlogged. Monitor for pests and diseases.
- 6
Ongoing care
Water deeply once a week during dry spells. Prune in late winter to maintain shape and health.
- 7
Harvest or pruning
Prune annually after fruiting to encourage new growth and prevent disease. Harvest fruits when they are fully colored.
- 8
Common mistakes
Overwatering, not providing enough sunlight, neglecting winter protection in colder zones, using incorrect soil pH, and overpruning.
VIEdible & utility
Edible & utility
Edible parts:FlowersFruitLeaves
Edible uses: The wax currant can be enjoyed in various forms. The flowers, leaves, and fruits are all edible. The fruits can be eaten raw or used to make jams and jellies. Leaves and flowers may also be added fresh to salads or brewed into tea. Skip the detailed preparation methods as they were not specified in the data provided.
Other uses:Animal feedAttracts insectsHedgerowPoultry forageDyeWildlife habitat
Contextrange · companions · related
VIIDistribution
17 native · 0 introduced
Distribution
17 native · 0 introducedDistribution across0 continents· 17 native
Broader regions
native:Alberta, Arizona, British Columbia, California, Colorado, Idaho, Montana, Nebraska, Nevada, New Mexico, North Dakota, Oklahoma, Oregon, South Dakota, Utah, Washington, Wyoming
IXSpecimen gallery
1 image
Specimen gallery
1 imageXI
Explore further
Companion planting
Growing zone
XII
About this entry
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Back to the cataloguePlant id · f84f9423-9aed-4372-afbb-bd9fc61b98b4
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