Plant Type

Shrub

 

Height Range

3-6'

 

Flower Color

Yellow

 

Flower Season

Spring

 

Leaf Color

Light Green

 

Bark Color

Brown

 

Fruit Color

Red

 

Fruit Season

Summer, Fall

Sun

Full, Half, Shade

 

Water

Medium, Extra in Summer

 

Growth Rate

Moderate

 

Soil Type

Sandy, Clay, Loam, Rocky, Unparticular

 

Soil Condition

Average, Rich, Poor, Well-drained, Dry

 

Soil pH

Neutral, Basic

 

Adverse Factors

n/a

Design Styles

Mediterranean, Woodland

 

Accenting Features

Fall Color

 

Seasonal Interest

Spring, Summer, Fall

 

Location Uses

Background, Shrub Border, Foundation, Walls / Fences

 

Special Uses

Hedge

 

Attracts Wildlife

Birds

Alpine currant is a compact, deciduous shrub that grows 3 to 6 feet tall and wide, with a very uniform, rounded-mounded form. Bright green leaves have 3 to 5 lobes, and turn to a dull yellow in fall. Flowers are greenish-yellow and inconspicuous. Dioecious (separate male and female plants). Fruit on female plants is an inedible, scarlet berry. However, most plants of this species which are sold commercially are male clones (males are reportedly immune to rust diseases). Stems are chestnut brown and may exfoliate (peel) as they mature. This is a handy shrub for the north and east foundations or under taller canopied trees as it does well in dense shade.

Grow in average, well-drained soil in full sun to part shade. Tolerates full shade. Tolerates nearly any type of soil as long as it is well draining. Prune at any time of year (flowers are insignificant) or simply allow plant to grow naturally. Extremely winter hardy. Is rabbit-resistant.