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Buffalo currant

Ribes odoratum

RY-beez oh-dor-AY-tum

In spring, this North American native shrub produces clove-scented, lemon-yellow flowers, which are followed by black edible fruits. It has attractive leaves, and grows 6 feet high and wide.

CareGrow in reasonably fertile, well-drained soil in full sun. After flowering, cut back shoots to strong buds, and remove one-third to one-fifth of old shoots at the base. 

PropagationTake hardwood cuttings in winter.

ProblemsRibes is a host for pine blister rust and, because of this, there is a ban on them in some states. Caterpillars, aphids, scale, dieback, downy mildew, anthracnose, rust, powdery mildew, white heart rot, Septoria leaf spot.

  • Genus : Ribes
  • Plant Height : 3 to 6 feet
  • Plant Width : 3 to 6 feet
  • Zones : 5, 6, 7, 8
  • Moisture : Adaptable
  • Tolerance : Deer Tolerant, Drought Tolerant
  • Characteristics : Fragrant Flowers, Self Seeds, Showy Fruit
  • Light : Full Sun to Partial Shade
  • Maintenance : Low
  • Growth Rate : Moderate
  • Plant Type : Shrubs
  • Bloom Time : Spring
  • Plant Seasonal Interest : Spring Interest
  • Flower Color : Yellow

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