Red Currant Ribes rubrum 'Stanza' (R)
ABOUT
Ribes rubrum 'Stanza', commonly known as the red currant, is a fruiting shrub that bears many attractive qualities. This plant presents itself with a structure that includes multiple upright branches, forming a somewhat rounded shape overall. The branches are adorned with leaves that are characterized by their deep green color and a somewhat glossy texture, featuring three to five lobes with serrated edges which give them a delicate, ornamental appearance. As spring arrives, the red currant 'Stanza' ushers in clusters of small, inconspicuous flowers. These blooms have a greenish-yellow hue and dangle elegantly from the branches. Following the blooming period, the true spectacle of this plant begins to unfold as it produces its signature fruits. The berries are typically bright red and glossy, hanging in straggling clusters that provide a striking contrast against the foliage. The fruits are about pea-sized and are known for their tart flavor, which makes them a favorite for use in jellies, sauces, and various culinary preparations. This ornamental and practical aspect, combined with the lush foliage, gives the red currant 'Stanza' a distinctive presence in gardens and landscapes.
About this plant
NamesFamily
Grossulariaceae
Synonyms
Red Currant, Garden Currant, Redcurrant
Common names
Ribes rubrum 'Stanza' (R)
ToxicityTo humans
The Ribes rubrum, commonly known as red currant, is generally considered non-toxic to humans. The berries and other parts of the plant are edible when ripe and are often used in jams, jellies, and culinary recipes. There are no common symptoms of poisoning from red currants because they are safe for human consumption in normal food quantities.
To pets
Red currant (Ribes rubrum) is also typically safe for pets, and there is no well-documented toxicity in domestic animals such as dogs and cats. Therefore, ingestion of red currants should not cause any significant symptoms of poisoning in pets. However, some animals might experience mild gastrointestinal upset if they consume large quantities due to the fiber and natural fruit acids in the berries.
CharacteristicsLife cycle
Perennials
Foliage type
Deciduous
Color of leaves
Green
Flower color
Varies
Height
3-5 feet (0.91-1.52 meters)
Spread
3-5 feet (0.91-1.52 meters)
Plant type
Shrub
Hardiness zones
3-8
Native area
Europe
Benefits
General Benefits- Edible Fruits: This cultivar produces tart red berries that can be used in jellies, syrups, and baking, offering a source of antioxidants and vitamins.
- Attractive Landscaping: The plant has a compact growth habit and attractive green foliage that can enhance the visual appeal of gardens.
- Wildlife Habitat: Its berries provide food for birds and other wildlife, supporting biodiversity.
- Low Maintenance: It is relatively easy to care for, requiring minimal pruning and being resistant to many pests and diseases.
- Cold Hardy: The plant is quite hardy, able to tolerate cold winters, making it suitable for a range of climates.
Medical Properties- Antioxidant activity: Red currant (Ribes rubrum 'Stanza') berries are rich in vitamin C and other antioxidants, which can help protect cells from damage by free radicals.
- Anti-inflammatory properties: The bioactive compounds in red currants may have anti-inflammatory effects.
- Immune support: High vitamin C content can contribute to the normal function of the immune system.
- Digestive health: Red currants contain dietary fiber, which may help maintain a healthy digestive system.
Air-purifying QualitiesThis plant is not specifically known for air purifying qualities.
Other Uses- Wildlife Habitat: Redcurrant 'Stanza' can provide shelter and nesting opportunities for birds as well as a food source from its berries.
- Photography Subject: The clusters of bright red berries and delicate flowers on the plant make it a popular subject for nature and garden photographers.
- Edible Landscaping: Incorporating redcurrants into landscaping adds both visual beauty and an edible aspect to gardens and public spaces.
- Dye Production: The berries of Redcurrant 'Stanza' can be used to produce natural dyes for fabrics and other materials.
- Craft Material: The strong, flexible stems can be used in arts and crafts for making wreaths and other decorative items.
- Floral Arrangements: The branches and berries can be used in floral arrangements or as table decorations for natural centerpieces.
- Culinary Garnish: The fresh or candied berries can serve as an attractive and edible garnish for desserts and drinks.
- Educational Tool: The plant can be used in educational settings to teach about plant growth, pollination, and fruit development.
- Companion Planting: Redcurrant 'Stanza' can be planted alongside other crops to attract beneficial insects and improve biodiversity.
- Culinary Workshops: The fruits can be incorporated into cooking classes and workshops focusing on jams, jellies, and fruit preserves.
Interesting Facts
Feng ShuiThe red currant is not used in Feng Shui practice.
Zodiac Sign CompitabilityThe red currant is not used in astrology practice.
Plant Symbolism- Prosperity: Red currants are often associated with abundance and wealth, as the plant produces plentiful fruit.
- Vitality: The bright red color of the fruit symbolizes energy and health, suggestive of the vitality of nature.
- Home and Hearth: Red currant bushes are a common sight in domestic gardens, representing comfort and nurturing within the family home.
- Gratitude: Gifting red currants can be seen as a token of appreciation, as the fruits are both nourishing and a delight to the senses.
WaterRed currants require consistent moisture, especially during fruit set and development. Water the plant deeply about once a week, providing 1 to 2 gallons of water to keep the soil evenly moist but not waterlogged. During hot, dry periods, you may need to water twice a week. Reduce watering in the fall as the plant goes dormant, and during the winter, only water if the soil is dry and there's no precipitation. Always check the top few inches of soil for dryness before watering to prevent overwatering.
LightRed currants thrive in full sun to partial shade with at least 4 to 6 hours of direct sunlight each day. They perform best when planted in a location that receives morning sun and some afternoon shade, especially in regions with very hot summers. Avoid deep shade as it will reduce fruit yield and quality.
TemperatureRed currants prefer cool to moderate climates and can tolerate a broad range of temperatures. They can survive winter chill down to about -40°F and are hardy in USDA zones 3 through 8. The ideal growing temperature for red currants is between 60°F and 70°F during the growing season. Extreme temperatures above 85°F may stress the plants, especially if nights remain warm.
PruningPruning red currants is essential to maintain plant vigor, facilitate air circulation, and improve fruit production. Prune the bushes in late winter or early spring before new growth starts. Remove dead or diseased wood, thin out old branches to encourage new growth, and cut back overgrown limbs. Annual pruning will help to produce larger berries and keep the plant healthy.
CleaningAs needed
SoilRed Currant 'Stanza' thrives in well-draining, fertile soil with a pH of 6.0 to 6.5. A soil mix with equal parts of loam, peat, and organic compost will support healthy growth.
RepottingRed Currant 'Stanza' should be repotted every 2-3 years to refresh the soil and facilitate healthy root growth.
Humidity & MistingRed Currant 'Stanza' prefers outdoor conditions and does not have specific humidity requirements; average outdoor humidity is suitable.
Suitable locationsIndoor
Provide bright light and cool temperatures for Red Currant 'Stanza'.
Outdoor
Plant in full sun to partial shade, protect from strong winds.
Hardiness zone
3-7 USDA
Life cycleRed Currant 'Stanza' begins its life cycle when the seeds germinate in early spring, requiring slightly moist, fertile soil to establish. It then enters a vegetative growth phase, where it develops a woody shrub structure, lush green leaves, and root systems throughout the spring and summer. As it matures, usually by the second or third year, it enters the flowering stage in late spring, producing clusters of small, greenish-yellow flowers that are pollinated by insects. After pollination, the flowers develop into translucent red berries throughout the summer, which ripen and can be harvested in late summer. Once the growing season ends, the plant enters dormancy during the fall and winter months, shedding leaves and conserving energy. The cycle repeats annually with the plant living for many years, typically between 10-20 years, producing fruit annually once mature.
PropogationPropogation time
Early spring
Ribes rubrum 'Stanza', commonly known as red currant, is typically propagated through hardwood cuttings. This method is popular due to its simplicity and effectiveness. It involves taking cuttings from mature woody stems during the plant's dormant season, normally in late fall or winter. Cuttings should be about 6 to 8 inches (15 to 20 centimeters) long with several buds on them. Once cut, the bottom end of the cutting is dipped in rooting hormone and then planted in a mix of sand and peat, ensuring at least two buds are above the surface. The cuttings are kept in a cold frame or similar environment until the following spring, when roots will have formed and the new plants can be transplanted to their final location.
