Ribes aureum aka Golden Currant
Taxonomy
Ribes aureum, also known as golden currant, clove currant, pruterberry, and buffalo currant, is a small to medium-sized deciduous shrub that is native to North America. It can grow up to 3 meters tall and has green leaves with 3 or 5 lobes that turn red in autumn. Unlike other currant species, Ribes aureum is remarkably drought-tolerant and is widely cultivated as an ornamental plant in traditional, native plant, drought-tolerant, and wildlife gardens, as well as in natural landscaping projects. Golden currant is a rare houseplant that is not challenging to grow and requires regular watering. It prefers long-lasting, direct light and should be less than 1 foot away from a window. Additionally, it thrives in soil that is well-draining and does not require added fertilizers if repotted every time it doubles in size. Golden currant belongs to the Ribes genus and is native to Canada, most of the United States, and northern Mexico.
Common names
Golden Currant, Buffalo Currant, Fragrant CurrantHow to care for Golden Currant
Difficulty
With a bit of knowledge and dedication, you can successfully care for Golden Currant, making it a rewarding choice for those seeking a moderate challenge.
Water
Golden Currant should be watered regularly, allowing the soil to dry out between waterings.
Soil
Golden 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 Golden Currant prefers bright indirect 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
No verified data on the toxicity of this plant exists within Ploi's records. Should you, someone in your family, or your pet ingest plant material with an unknown toxicity level, it is recommended to seek medical advice.
Fertilizer
Once the Golden Currant has doubled in size or after a year has passed, it should be moved to a new pot. By replacing the soil with fresh potting soil containing all the vital nutrients, your plant will receive all the sustenance it needs, negating the requirement for fertilizer. It's important to remember that plants get their energy from the sun, not fertilizer.
Region of origin
Golden Currant’s native range is Western N. America - Saskatchewan to Washington, south to California. Naturalized in C. Europe.
More info:
Wikipedia
More Species in Ribes Genus
Ribes missouriense Missouri Gooseberry
Ribes odoratum
Ribes altissimum
Ribes griffithii
Ribes bracteosum Stink Currant
Ribes fasciculatum
Ribes malvaceum Chaparral Currant
Ribes inerme White Stem Gooseberry
