Mon-Fri 9am - 5pm Mountain time
Red Currant vs Ranch Elderberry
Sambucus canadensis Ranch
Ribes rubrum
NOT AVAILABLE THIS SEASON
Ranch Elderberry is a vigorous and high-yielding Black Elderberry cultivar. It ripens earlier than other varieties and is smaller and more compact making berry harvest easier. The berries are well-suited for baked goods, jams, jellies, and syrups. They are high in vitamin C and reported to be beneficial for the immune system.
Black Elderberries are considered to be partially self-pollinating. So while they will still produce some berries without cross-pollination, planting with another variety will increase yields. Consider planting with Black Elderberry or Bob Gordon Elderberry.
Warning: the seeds, stems, leaves, roots, and uncooked berries are toxic to humans when eaten in quantity. Berries should be cooked to make them safe for human consumption.
Red Currant is a deciduous shrub native to western Europe. It features five-lobed, maple-like leaves, and bright red berries that can be used in jams, sauces, and fresh eating.
Although this shrub is self-fertile, it will be more productive if another pollinator is present. For year over year high yields, ensure you fertilize (bone meal), prune, and mulch your Red Currant shrub.
Note: This species is currently unavailable. Grow your own using Red Currant seeds at SeedTime.ca.
Ranch Elderberry Quick Facts
Red Currant Quick Facts
Toxicity: leaves, stems, and uncooked berries are poisonous to humans