Ribes alpinum aka Alpine Currant

Taxonomy

Genus Ribes Family Grossulariaceae Order Saxifragales Class Magnoliopsida Phylum Tracheophyta
Ribes alpinum, also known as mountain currant or alpine currant, is a small deciduous shrub that is native to central and northern Europe, from Finland and Norway south to the Alps and Pyrenees, and Caucasus, Georgia. In the south of its range, it is confined to high altitudes. It is scarce in western Europe, with only a few sites in northern England and Wales. This compact, mound-forming shrub grows 3-6 feet tall and has bright green leaves that turn to a dull yellow in the fall. The bark starts off smooth and light grey, but later becomes brownish-grey and begins to flake off. The buds are scattered, compressed, and light green to white, while the male and female flowers are on distinct specimens. Both kinds of flowers are organized in clusters in the corners of the leaves, where the male's are the longest. The individual flowers are small and greenish-yellow. The fruit of the female plant is an inedible, scarlet berry that resembles a redcurrant but has an insipid taste. However, most plants of this species that are sold commercially are male clones, as males are reportedly immune to rust diseases. Mountain currants prefer long-lasting, direct light and should be less than 1 foot from a window. They like soil that is well-draining and do not require added fertilizers if repotted each time they double in size. The Ribes genus, to which mountain currant belongs, is native to Northern and Central Europe and Russia.

Common names

Alpine Currant, Mountain Currant

How to care for Alpine Currant

Difficulty

Alpine Currant is a low-maintenance plant that requires minimal attention, making it an excellent choice for beginners.

Water

Alpine Currant should be watered regularly, allowing the soil to dry out between waterings.

Soil

Alpine Currant loves a well-draining soil. Perlite and vermiculite help with drainage, while coco coir adds organic matter, so a good potting soil mix will have all three. You can improve store-bought soil by adding some perlite to it.

Lighting

To ensure optimal growth, the Alpine Currant prefers bright diffused light for 6-8 hours each day. Insufficient light can result in slow growth and leaf drop, so it's important to find a well-lit location for this plant. Place it near a window, within a distance of 1 meter (3 feet), to enhance its potential for thriving.

Toxicity

Ploi's records do not contain confirmed information on the toxicity of this particular plant. In the event of accidental ingestion of plant material with questionable toxicity by you, a family member, or a pet, it is always a good idea to consult a healthcare professional.

Fertilizer

The Alpine Currant should be repotted either when it doubles in size or annually, whichever comes first. Providing new potting soil with all the vital nutrients annually is enough to support the growth of the plant, and thus, there is no need for fertilizer. Remember that plants derive their energy from the sun, not fertilizer.

Region of origin

Alpine Currant’s native range is Europe, including Britain, from Scandanavia south and east to N. Africa, Italy, Montenegro, Bulgaria.

More info:
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More Species in Ribes Genus

Ribes bracteosum Stink Currant

Ribes triste Swamp Red Currant

Ribes divaricatum Wild Black Gooseberry

Ribes alpinum Alpine Currant

Ribes montigenum Alpine Prickly Currant

Ribes sanguineum Flowering Currant

Ribes malvaceum Chaparral Currant

Ribes nevadense Mountain Pink Currant

Ribes hirtellum Hairystem Gooseberry

Ribes lacustre Bristly Black Gooseberry