Prickly Blackcurrant, Prickly currant

Ribes lacustre

Physical Characteristics

Ribes lacustre is a deciduous Shrub growing to 1.5 m (5ft). See above for USDA hardiness. It is hardy to UK zone 4. It is in flower from April to May. The species is hermaphrodite (has both male and female organs) and is pollinated by Insects. Suitable for: light (sandy), medium (loamy) and heavy (clay) soils and prefers well-drained soil. Suitable pH: mildly acid, neutral and basic (mildly alkaline) soils. It can grow in semi-shade (light woodland) or no shade. It prefers moist soil.

Distribution

N. America - Newfoundland to Alaska, south to Massachusetts, New York, Pennsylvania and California.

Habitats

Woodland Garden Sunny Edge; Dappled Shade; Shady Edge;

Edible Uses

Edible Parts: Fruit Edible Uses: Fruit - raw or cooked[2, 3, 85, 101, 257]. Tart and very juicy[183]. The fully ripe fruit has an agreeable flavour[256]. When crushed the fruit has a foul odour[43] but when eaten by the handful the odour is inoffensive (this sounds a bit strange!) and when cooked they make a good sauce[183]. The fruit can also be dried for later use or used to make jams and preserves[257]. The fruit is about 5mm in diameter[200] and is covered with weak gland-tipped bristles[235].

Medicinal Uses

Analgesic Birthing aid Laxative Ophthalmic Stomachic The leaves or the bark can be chewed and then placed on sores caused by the prickles of this plant[257]. A decoction of the bark has been used as a wash for sore eyes[257]. The decoction has also been taken by women during labour to ease the birth[257]. A decoction of the root can be taken several times a day as a treatment for constipation[257]. A decoction of the twigs has been taken in the treatment of general body aches[257]. A decoction of dried branches has been used in the treatment of stomach complaints, diarrhoea and colds[257].

Known Hazards

Skin contact with the spines can cause an allergic reaction in some people[101].