University of Illinois Extension
University of Illinois Extension - Selecting Shrubs for Your Home
http://www.urbanext.uiuc.edu/shrubselector
Alpine Currant
Ribes alpinum
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Leaves of Alpine Currant
Size:
Size: small
Small

Medium

Large
Exposure/ Light Requirements:
Full Shade required.
Full Shade
Full Sun required.
Full Sun
Partial Sun/Shade required.
Partial Sun/Shade
Pests and Problems:

Environmental Damage

Fungal Disease


Anthracnose and leaf spots are potential problems. In some parts of the country, the planting of Ribes species is illegal, due to the fact some species are alternate hosts for white pine blister rust. Check with local authorities before planting.
Hardiness Zone: 3 - 7 
Mature Height: 3-6 Feet
Mature Width: 3-6 Feet
Features: Shiny, dark green leaves in summer; female plants produce bright red fruit in mid-summer (many commercially available cultivars are male and do not produce fruit).
Culture: Full sun to shade; moist, well-drained soil is best, but tolerates some dryness; tolerates alkaline soils.
Cultivars:
  • 'Green Mound'- 2-3 feet tall, male (no fruit), resistant to leaf diseases.
  • 'Spreg'(Green Jeans™)- 3-5 feet tall, leaves remain clean throughout summer.
Mature Form: Rounded
Native To: Europe
Soil Conditions:
Soil condition: DryDry
Soil condition: Moist, Well-DrainedMoist, Well-Drained
Wet
Tolerance:
Tolerance: Alkaline SoilAlkaline Soil
Tolerance: Dry SitesDry Sites
Salt
Soil Compaction
Wet Sites
Tolerance: WindWind
Uses:
Barrier
Use for: Border.Border
Use for: Foundation.Foundation
Use for: Hedge.Hedge
Use for: Massing.Massing
Naturalizing
Screen
Specimen
Foliage Color: Green
 
Fall Foliage Color: Green
 
Additional Notes: Male and female flowers on separate plants. Fruit will be produced only if a male plant is available to pollinate the females. Many cultivars available commercially are male.