Description
This knock-out, gorgeous, suckering shrub not only has brilliant golden spring flowers, but the large fruit is edible and delicious. Golden currant is more common east of the Cascades, but there are scattered occurrences within the Klamath-Siskiyou range. The drooping, golden racemes of 5-15 flowered clusters bloom April-May. The spicy scented flowers are unmistakable on a hot summer day. Bumblebees, butterflies and hummingbirds are attracted to the flowers. Growing 6′-10′ tall, golden currant has deciduous, green, gooseberry-shaped leaves that turn stunning fall colors. The glossy, black summer fruit (currants) are 1/3″ in diameter can be eaten raw and are perfect for jams, pies and preserves. You have to beat the birds to the fruit, however, as they are favored by many species of bird. Tolerant of full sun to part shade. Generally drought tolerant, but will benefit from occasional summer irrigation in the garden setting. Prefers a wide variety of well-drained soil. Great for edible, pollinator, and drought-tolerant gardens, hedges, and as a showy ornamental, not to mention habitat restoration within its range. Deer browse the leaves and shoots. The genus name “Ribes,” is derived from the Danish word “ribs,” meaning red currant. The specific epithet, “aureus,” translates to “golden” in Latin, a reference to the golden flower color.
Golden currant (Ribes aureum) seed packets contain approximately 40 seeds per packet.
Seed Germination Instructions
90 days cold-moist stratification. Sow outside in fall.