Ribes laxiflorum: complete guide

Overview

The spreading currant, scientifically known as Ribes laxiflorum, is an interesting mountain shrub native to subarctic and arctic North America. The plant ranges from subarctic Canada into the mountain regions of the western United States. This plant is characterized by its sprawling growth habit, dark green leaves, and black berries that stand out against the foliage.

Ribes laxiflorum belongs to the Grossulariaceae family, the same family as currants and gooseberries. The plant is highly suited to cold climates and grows naturally in mountain regions where temperatures can drop significantly. This makes it a perfect choice for Northern European gardens.

Appearance and Bloom

The spreading currant grows to approximately 50 to 100 centimeters tall and forms a dense, compact growth pattern. The stems are thin, greenish, and sprawling (they grow slowly outward in a spreading manner). Some branches assume an almost horizontal pattern.

The leaves are green, small to medium-sized, approximately 2 to 4 centimeters long, and have a wrinkled form. They are densely packed on the stems, giving the plant a very full appearance.

The flowers appear from May to June and are very small and inconspicuous. They are yellowish to reddish and appear in small clusters. The flowering period is short. After flowering, shiny black berries develop that are approximately 10 to 12 millimeters in diameter. These berries are quite large for a spreading currant and are nutritious.

Ideal Location

The spreading currant grows best in partial shade to full sun. The plant thrives in locations with 3 to 5 hours of direct sunlight per day. In very hot climates, some afternoon shade may be beneficial. The plant also tolerates shaded locations well and grows both under trees and in open areas.

The plant is well-suited to mountainous locations and windy sites where much wind blows. This is not problematic for this plant, as it naturally grows in such conditions.

Soil

Ribes laxiflorum is not particularly fussy about soil types. The plant grows well on well-draining soils with a pH between 4.5 and 7.0. This means the plant thrives in both acidic and neutral to slightly alkaline soil.

The plant feels at home on poor mountain soils and grows well on rocky and stony terrain. It doesn't matter much if you add humus; the plant grows well in relatively poor soils as well.

Make the planting hole approximately 40 centimeters deep and wide. Mixing with compost can be helpful but is not essential.

Watering

Ribes laxiflorum requires regular watering, especially during the growing season. The plant tolerates dry periods less well than many other currants. In normal years with adequate rainfall, you won't need much supplemental watering.

During the first growing season, water regularly until the plant is well-established. This typically takes 3 to 4 weeks. Water when the top 3 centimeters of soil feel dry.

In very dry summers (such as 2022), you can provide supplemental watering, although the plant generally tolerates this. However, avoid water stagnation, which can lead to root rot.

Pruning

Ribes laxiflorum requires minimal pruning. The plant grows naturally compact and dense. However, in spring (March/April), you can remove dead branches. Pruning for shape improvement is rarely needed.

If you want to keep the plant tidier, best remove older branches (older than 3 years) in spring. This stimulates new, fruitful growth. Also remove low-hanging branches that touch the ground.

Avoid aggressive pruning; this plant does not respond well to heavy pruning.

Maintenance Calendar

March-April: Remove dead branches. Prune for shape improvement if needed. Water if dry.

May-June: Flowers appear. Inconspicuous blooms. Check watering needs.

July-August: Berry set. Berries grow and turn black. Provide regular watering.

September-October: Harvest black berries. Winter preparation. Clean up fallen leaves.

November-February: Dormant period. Minimal maintenance needed. Protect against snow loads.

Winter Hardiness

Ribes laxiflorum is extremely hardy and tolerates temperatures down to minus 40 degrees Celsius. This makes it suitable for all Northern European gardens, including very cold mountain regions. The plant remains green year-round.

Companion Plants

The spreading currant combines well with other mountain plants and cold-tolerant species. Try:

Grasses and sedges - fine structural contrast

Dog rose - natural mountain combination

Juniper - permanent green structure

Wildflowers - natural mountain landscape

Closing

The spreading currant is a perfect choice for mountain gardens and cold climates. This plant produces nutritious black berries each year and thrives in conditions where many other plants cannot grow. Once planted, this plant will last for many years with minimal care. This is a valued plant for gardeners who want to add vitality to their gardens in extreme conditions.

Ribes laxiflorum is not always offered in Dutch garden centers. Specialized nurseries and online suppliers offer this plant best. Try asking for it at larger garden centers as well.