Northern black currant (Ribes hudsonianum, J.Franklin, Narr. Journey Polar Sea: 734 (1823))

Family: Grossulariaceae

Author: Richardson

Bibliography: J.Franklin, Narr. Journey Polar Sea: 734 (1823)

Year: 1823

Status: accepted

Rank: species

Genus: Ribes

Vegetable: False

Observations: Subarctic Amercia to N. & W. U.S.A.

Description

The Northern black currant, known scientifically as Ribes hudsonianum, is a resilient and adaptable shrub belonging to the Grossulariaceae family. This plant is predominantly found in the subarctic regions of America, extending its range throughout the northern and western portions of the United States.

Characterized by its hardiness, the Northern black currant thrives in cooler climates where it can often be observed growing in the wild. The shrub typically bears clusters of small, black berries that are not only appealing to the local wildlife but can also be utilized by humans for various culinary applications. The plant’s berries, rich in flavor, are often harvested for jams, jellies, and even traditional medicinal remedies, highlighting its versatility.

The historical documentation of the Northern black currant can be traced back to J. Franklin’s “Narrative of a Journey to the Shores of the Polar Sea,” published in 1823. In this comprehensive work, noted botanist Richardson provided one of the early formal records of the species, underscoring its significance in botanical studies of northern flora.

The Northern black currant stands as a testament to the enduring beauty and utility found in subarctic botanicals. It serves an essential role in its native habitats, providing both ecological benefits and resources that have been appreciated by humans for centuries.

Common Names

Eng: northern black currant, western black currant, hudson bay currant, stinking currant, wild black currant
Fra: gadellier de la baie d’hudson
En: Northern black currant, Western black currant, Hudson Bay currant, Stinking currant, Wild black currant
Fr: Gadellier de la baie d’Hudson

Synonyms

• Ribes petiolare (Douglas)
• Ribes trifidum (Michx.)
• Ribes laxiflorum (Richardson)
• Ribes hudsonianum var. petiolare ((Douglas) Jancz.)
• Ribes hudsonianum var. canadense (Jancz.)
• Ribes hudsonianum f. glabrum (Thieret)

Distribution

• Alaska (native)
• Alberta (native)
• British Columbia (native)
• California (native)
• Colorado (native)
• Idaho (native)
• Iowa (native)
• Manitoba (native)
• Michigan (native)
• Minnesota (native)
• Montana (native)
• Nevada (native)
• Northwest Territorie (native)
• Ontario (native)
• Oregon (native)
• Québec (native)
• Saskatchewan (native)
• Utah (native)
• Washington (native)
• Wisconsin (native)
• Wyoming (native)
• Yukon (native)

Additional Images

Habit

Taken Jul 14, 2014 by EOL − Mary Winter (public)

© copyright of the Board of Trustees of the Royal Botanic Gardens, Kew.

© copyright of the Board of Trustees of the Royal Botanic Gardens, Kew.

Sources

• WFO (No URL)
• IPNI (No URL)
• GBIF (https://www.gbif.org/species/2986140)
• POWO (http://powo.science.kew.org/taxon/urn:lsid:ipni.org:names:792759-1)
• PlantNet (https://identify.plantnet.org/species/the-plant-list/Ribes hudsonianum Richardson)

Specifications

Growth form>: Thicket Forming

Growth habit>: Shrub

Growth rate>: Moderate

Growth

Ph maximum: 6.9

Ph minimum: 5.0