Evergreen currant (Ribes viburnifolium)

Evergreen currant

Also known as: Santa catalina island currant, Santa Catalina Island Gooseberry, Catalina Currant

The evergreen currant is a rare species of evergreen with a very limited range in Santa Catalina Island and Baja California. However, it is a popular species for landscaping. The leaves secrete a citrusy-smelling sap, and the plants produce small red fruit that is attractive to birds.

Scientific classification

Species

Evergreen currant (Ribes viburnifolium)

Saxifrages, stonecrops and allies

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Perennial

Lifespan

Shrub

Plant Type

Mid spring, Late spring

Bloom Time

Late spring

Harvest Time

61 cm to 91 cm

Plant Height

1.2 m to 1.8 m

Spread

1.5 cm to 5 cm

Flower Size

Pink, Red

Flower Color

Rapid

Growth Rate

Images of Evergreen currant

Attributes of Evergreen currant

Growth Rate

Exhibiting a rapid growth rate, evergreen currant undergoes significant development during the Spring, Summer, and Fall. This manifests in accelerated leaf production, substantial height increase, and prodigious flowering. The growth speed implies a heightened metabolic activity within this period, which, besides enhancing its photosynthetic capacity, also gives evergreen currant its characteristic dense foliage. Whilst its growth rate may fluctuate across seasons, the mentioned stages represent its peak proliferation. This adaptation equips evergreen currant with resilience against seasonal stresses, shaping its evergreen demeanor.

Distribution of Evergreen currant

Distribution Map

Evergreen currant, a plant species within the Ribes genus, is native to the Baja California peninsula, which spans across the major region of North America. Despite its localized native range, it has been successfully introduced to other temperate regions within this continent where gardeners appreciate its evergreen foliage and tolerance to drought.

Native

Cultivated

Invasive

Introduced

No species reported

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Habitat

Shrubby canyon areas

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Dark red stems contrast with aromatic dark green ovate leaves.

Small rose pink star-shaped flowers in clusters from late winter.

Evergreen shrub with arching foliage and edible berries for birds.

Leaves are leathery to the touch and not appealing to deer.

Reaches up to 4 feet (120 cm) tall with a spread of 6 feet (180 cm).

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Care Guide for Evergreen currant

Every 2-3 weeks

Water

Full sun

Sunlight

20 - 35 ℃

Ideal Temperature

Water: Evergreen currant thrives in arid conditions, requiring minimal moisture and occasional watering every 2-3 weeks. Its drought tolerance and ability to retain water in its foliage help it survive in regions with sporadic rainfall, making it an ideal evergreen plant for outdoor growth.

Fertilize: For evergreen currant, apply balanced nutrition fertilizers biannually in early spring and midsummer to enhance growth and blooming. Adjust nitrogen levels according to plant maturity, avoiding fertilization during dormancy, and always water after feeding to prevent root burn and improve nutrient uptake.

Pruning: Evergreen currant thrives with late spring pruning, focusing on dead or damaged branches and light shaping. Thinning dens areas enhances air circulation and sunlight exposure. Avoid heavy pruning to preserve blooming potential. Post-flowering pruning promotes health, vigor, and longevity.

Propagation: Evergreen currant, a low-growing shrub from California, prefers well-drained soils and partial shade. To propagate, take 4-6 inch semi-hardwood cuttings in late summer, use rooting hormone, and plant in a peat-perlite mix. Keep moist and provide indirect light until roots establish.

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