White currant Ribes rubrum 'Blanka' (W)
ABOUT
The 'Blanka' variety of red currant is characterized by its distinctive fruit and foliage. It features bright green leaves that are typically three-lobed and have a slightly glossy appearance. The texture of the leaves is smooth with a somewhat leathery feel, and they are arranged alternately on the branches, creating a lush, full look to the shrub throughout the growing season. The most notable feature of the 'Blanka' red currant is its clusters of fruit. The berries are usually translucent with a shiny skin, and they range in color from a light, almost iridescent, pink to a clear, bright white when fully ripe. This cultivar is known for producing fruit that is larger and sweeter compared to other red currant varieties, making them highly desired for fresh eating, as well as for use in jellies, preserves, and other culinary applications. The berries form in generous clusters that hang from the branches, creating an attractive display as they ripen. These clusters, known as strigs, make the berries relatively easy to harvest. Additionally, the flowers of the 'Blanka' red currant are small, with a greenish-yellow hue, and they bloom in clusters as well. These modest flowers are an early-season attraction for beneficial pollinators, which in turn help to ensure a good crop of the succulent berries later in the season. Overall, the 'Blanka' red currant is primarily grown for its fruit, but it also provides ornamental value in the garden with its attractive foliage and the visual appeal of the hanging fruit clusters. It can serve as an attractive addition to edible landscapes, fruit gardens, or even as a decorative feature in a mixed border.
About this plant
NamesSynonyms
White Currant, Blanka Currant, White Dutch Currant.
Common names
Ribes rubrum 'Blanka' (W).
ToxicityTo humans
The plant known as red currant is generally considered non-toxic to humans when consumed in the form of ripe berries. There are no common toxic effects associated with the ingestion of ripe red currant fruit. However, the leaves, stems, and unripe fruit should not be consumed in large quantities as they may contain small amounts of substances that could be harmful if eaten in large amounts.
To pets
Red currant, in general, is not considered toxic to pets, such as dogs and cats. Just like in humans, the ripe berries are safe for pets to eat. However, caution should be taken with other parts of the plant, including leaves and stems, as their consumption in significant amounts could potentially cause mild gastrointestinal upset. It is always a good practice to monitor pets when they are around plants.
CharacteristicsLife cycle
Perennials
Foliage type
Deciduous
Color of leaves
Green
Flower color
Greenish-yellow
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- High in Nutrients: Ribes rubrum 'Blanka' (White Currant) berries are rich in vitamins and antioxidants, supporting a healthy diet.
- Ease of Care: White Currants are relatively easy to grow and maintain, making them suitable for a variety of gardeners.
- Attractive to Wildlife: The plant's flowers attract pollinators like bees and butterflies, while birds enjoy the fruit.
- Edible Fruit: The berries are edible fresh or can be used in a wide range of culinary recipes, such as jams and desserts.
- Landscape Versatility: White Currant bushes can be used in different landscaping designs, including ornamental use or as part of an edible garden.
- Environmental Tolerance: The plant is known for its ability to withstand cooler climates and some harsh conditions.
- Compact Growth: White Currants do not require a lot of space to grow, making them suitable for small gardens or as part of a mixed border.
Medical Properties- High in antioxidants: Red currant contains high levels of vitamin C and antioxidants, which may help in protecting the body from oxidative stress and reducing the risk of chronic diseases.
- Anti-inflammatory properties: The flavonoids in red currant are thought to possess anti-inflammatory effects, which could be beneficial for reducing inflammation in various conditions.
- Supports immune system: Due to its high vitamin C content, red currant can support the immune system and improve general health.
- Improves digestion: The fiber in red currant berries can aid in digestion and prevent constipation.
- Potential blood glucose regulation: Red currant might have a role in regulating blood glucose levels, although there's limited research on this potential benefit.
- Eye health support: Red currant's vitamin C and antioxidant content might contribute to the maintenance of healthy vision.
Air-purifying QualitiesThis plant is not specifically known for air purifying qualities.
Other Uses- Red currant can be used in natural dyes; the berries provide a soft pink to reddish-purple hue, depending on the mordant used.
- It is utilized in creating wildlife-friendly gardens as its dense foliage provides excellent cover and nesting opportunities for birds.
- The high pectin content of red currant makes it ideal for use in jams, jellies, and preserves without the need for additional pectin.
- Red currant bushes can be trained along fences or walls as ornamental espaliers, which can also aid in maximizing space in small gardens.
- The plant's wood is sometimes used in traditional small-scale crafts for making tool handles or simple instruments.
- Red currant leaves can be used as a natural flavoring agent to infuse teas, giving a tart and fruity twist to the beverage.
- In permaculture, red currant can be planted to form an edible hedge, producing food while defining boundaries in the landscape.
- The tart berries are occasionally used in savory sauces and condiments, complementing rich meats like duck and pork.
- Red currant can be a host plant for beneficial insects, including predatory mites that keep pest populations in check in the garden.
- Photographers and artists can use the aesthetic appeal of red currant's brightly colored fruit and translucent quality for still life and macro photography.
Interesting Facts
Feng ShuiThe redcurrant is not used in Feng Shui practice.
Zodiac Sign CompitabilityThe redcurrant is not used in astrology practice.
Plant Symbolism- Growth and Vitality - As a robust and fruit-bearing plant, the common redcurrant (Ribes rubrum) symbolizes growth and the vitality of life, representing the potential for development and the energy necessary for it.
- Bounty and Abundance - With its clusters of berries, redcurrant is often associated with abundance and plenty, suggesting a generous nature or fruitful endeavors.
- Protection - Redcurrants have historically been used in gardens to deter unwanted animals and pests, thereby taking on a symbolic meaning of protection and safeguarding.
- Sweetness and Pleasure - The sweet-tart taste of redcurrant berries can symbolize life's sweetness and simple pleasures, as well as the balance of experiences.
WaterThe Red Currant 'Blanka' requires consistent moisture, especially during the growing season. It should be watered deeply once a week, allowing the soil to dry slightly between waterings. During hot or dry spells, you may need to water twice a week, providing about 1 to 1.5 gallons per plant each time. In the fall and winter, reduce watering as the plant goes dormant. Overhead watering should be avoided to prevent leaf diseases; instead, water at the base of the plant to keep the roots moist.
LightRed Currant 'Blanka' thrives in full sun to partial shade. The ideal spot would provide at least 4 to 6 hours of direct sunlight daily, with some afternoon shade in hotter regions to protect the plant from intense heat. Avoid deeply shaded areas, as this can reduce fruit production and overall plant vigor.
TemperatureThe Red Currant 'Blanka' plant can survive in temperatures as low as 0 degrees Fahrenheit and can handle frost due to its cold hardiness. The ideal growing temperature for active growth and fruiting is between 55 and 75 degrees Fahrenheit. High heat above 85 degrees Fahrenheit can stress the plant and diminish fruit quality.
PruningPrune the Red Currant 'Blanka' to remove dead or diseased wood, improve air circulation, and shape the plant, typically in late winter when the plant is dormant. Annual pruning helps to maximize fruit production by encouraging new growth. Prune up to one-third of the old stems to ground level, leaving strong, younger canes for future fruiting.
CleaningAs needed
SoilRed currant 'Blanka' thrives in well-draining soil rich in organic matter with a pH between 6.0 and 6.5. A mix of garden loam, peat moss, and well-rotted compost will create an ideal environment for this fruiting shrub.
RepottingRed currant 'Blanka' does not typically require frequent repotting as it is usually grown outdoors. If grown in containers, repot every 2-3 years or when the plant outgrows its current pot.
Humidity & MistingRed currant 'Blanka' is tolerant of a wide range of humidity levels and does not require any specific humidity conditions, making it suitable for most outdoor environments.
Suitable locationsIndoor
Not ideal for indoor growth; needs full sun, cool winters.
Outdoor
Plant in full sun, well-drained soil, water regularly.
Hardiness zone
3-7 USDA.
Life cycleRed currant 'Blanka' begins its life cycle with seed germination, occurring in spring when soil temperatures warm. Seedlings emerge and establish a root system, developing into juvenile plants with characteristic lobed leaves. The plant enters a vegetative state, growing stems and foliage, and becoming a mature shrub within two to three years. Flowering occurs in late spring, with the plant producing small, greenish-yellow flowers which are pollinated by insects. Following pollination, berries develop and ripen by mid-summer, turning from green to a translucent white. After fruiting, the plant enters a period of dormancy in autumn and winter, losing leaves and conserving energy for the next growing season.
PropogationPropogation time
Spring-Early Summer
The most popular method of propagation for Ribes rubrum 'Blanka', commonly known as the White Currant, is by hardwood cuttings. This is typically done during the plant's dormancy period in late fall or early winter. To propagate, one should select healthy, mature stems from the current or previous year's growth and cut them into lengths of about 6 to 8 inches (15 to 20 cm), making sure each cutting has at least two to three buds. The bottom cut should be made just below a bud, and the top cut just above a bud to ensure proper orientation when planting. The cuttings are then planted in well-draining soil with two-thirds of their length below the surface, in a location with indirect light. Roots will usually develop during the winter, and by spring the cuttings can be transplanted to their final location. This method is favored for its simplicity and effectiveness in producing new plants that are true to the parent.
