Description

This is one of the lesser-known of the roughly 28 Ribes species found in the Golden State. It is really quite attractive and should be planted more often. Whiteflower currant grows in coastal mountains from Point Buchon in southern San Luis Obispo County into northwestern Baja, Mexico. It is most common in San Diego County where it grows in chaparral and coastal sage scrub. Its form is upright and rounded, typically to about six feet in height and width. The leaves are lobed, bright green and scalloped. The blooms appear in winter as a cluster (“raceme”) of tubular white flowers. Waxy blue berries follow in late spring, which are relished by birds. Whiteflower currant seems to appreciate some protection from the late afternoon sun, and indirect access to water, which is surprising in light of its southern origin. A thick mulch around the base of the plant, a site in partial shade, indirect watering (i.e. deep watering about six feet from the base of the plant), or a combination of these may well provide ideal support. Direct watering should be avoided once established. Whiteflower currant will be deciduous in later summer, leafing out again with the onset of cool weather.