Red Lake Red Currant

The Red Lake Red Currant plant, also known as Ribes rubrum 'Red Lake,' is a deciduous shrub that belongs to the Grossulariaceae family. It is a popular variety of red currant plants, which are grown for their edible, bright red berries.

The Red Lake Red Currant plant can reach up to 6 feet (1.8 meters) in height and width, making it a relatively large shrub. It has an upright growth habit, with many branches that are covered with dark green, lobed leaves. In the spring, the shrub produces small, yellow-green flowers that are arranged in long clusters known as racemes. These flowers are followed by abundant clusters of red, juicy berries that ripen in late June or early July.

The Red Lake Red Currant plant prefers well-drained, fertile soil and full sun to partial shade. It is a hardy plant that can tolerate cold temperatures, making it suitable for growing in temperate climates. The plant requires regular watering and benefits from a layer of mulch around its base to conserve moisture.

The Red Lake Red Currant plant is not only valued for its delicious berries but also for its ornamental value. Its bright red berries provide a stunning contrast against its dark green foliage, making it an attractive addition to any garden or landscape. Its dense growth habit also makes it an ideal shrub for hedging or screening purposes.

Overall, the Red Lake Red Currant plant is a beautiful, productive, and easy-to-grow shrub that can provide both ornamental and edible benefits to any garden or landscape.

Latin Name: Ribes triste

Site and Soil: Red Lake Red Currant plants prefer well-drained soil and full sun to partial shade. They can grow in various types of soil, but they perform best in loamy soil with a pH range of 5.5 to 7.0.

Pollination Requirements: Red Lake Red Currant plants are self-fertile, but cross-pollination with another cultivar can increase fruit production.

Hardiness: Red Lake Red Currant plants are hardy to USDA Zone 3 (-40°F/-40°C) and can tolerate winter temperatures.

Bearing Age: Red Lake Red Currant plants can begin producing fruit as early as one to two years after planting.

Size at Maturity: Red Lake Red Currant plants can grow up to 6 feet tall and wide.

Bloom Time: Red Lake Red Currant plants produce small, inconspicuous yellow-green flowers in early spring.

Ripening Time: Red Lake Red Currants ripen in late June to early July, depending on the location and climate.

Yield: Red Lake Red Currant plants can produce up to 5-10 pounds of fruit per plant, depending on the growing conditions and management practices.

Pests & Diseases: Red Lake Red Currant plants are generally resistant to pests and diseases, but they can be susceptible to aphids, currant fruit flies, and powdery mildew. Regular monitoring and management practices can help prevent and control these issues.

USDA Zone: Red Lake Red Currant plants are hardy to USDA Zone 3 (-40°F/-40°C) and can grow in colder regions.