red currant

The red currant is a shrub from the genus Ribes, known for its tart, juicy berries. These berries are commonly used in jams, jellies, and can be eaten fresh. The red currant (Ribes rubrum) is one of the most economically important species, alongside the black currant. Currant plants are typically spineless shrubs with leaves that radiate from a central point. Their flowers can be various colors, including red, and they produce true berries. Currants are a good source of vitamin C, calcium, phosphorus, and iron. They are native to temperate climates in the Northern Hemisphere and western South America. Cultivation of currants can be restricted in some areas due to their role as hosts for white-pine blister rust.123