Wax Currant (Ribes cereum)

Family: Grossulariaceae | Edibility: Edible (2/5)

Ribes cereum is a deciduous Shrub growing to 1.8 m (6ft). See above for USDA hardiness. It is hardy to UK zone 5. It is in flower in April, and the seeds ripen in September. The species is hermaphrodite (has both male and female organs) and is pollinated by Insects. Suitable for: light (sandy), medium (loamy) and heavy (clay) soils and prefers well-drained soil. Suitable pH: mildly acid, neutral and basic (mildly alkaline) soils.

Edible Parts & Harvest Seasons

Edible Parts: Fruit, Berries, Leaves, Flowers

Harvest Seasons: Early Summer, Fall, Late Summer, Spring

Flavor & Culinary Uses

sweet flavour. — Fruit - raw or cooked.; Not very nice, large quantities can cause nausea.; Reports on the quality of the fruit range from insipid and rubbery to highly esteemed as an article of diet.; The fruit can also be used to make pemmican, jellies, jams, sauces and pies.

Habitat & North American Range

Canyons, dry ravines, hillsides, prairies and open woodland. (Zone 4, Zone 5, Zone 6, Zone 7, Zone 8)