American Black Currant
Ribes americanum
Last reviewed: June 2026
Ribes americanum is a native shrub found across much of the United States, blooming with yellow flowers in May and June. This American Black Currant thrives in partial shade and attracts bees and flies.
The USDA PLANTS Database (opens in new tab) does not flag American Black Currant as toxic to livestock.
Light
part shade
Water
medium
Size
24"–60" H × 24"–48" W
Bloom
May, Jun
Native to
CO, CT, DE, IA and 26 more states
Pollinators
bees, flies
American black currant is a native shrub that produces small white flower clusters in late spring followed by edible black berries in summer. This well-behaved shrub has an upright, rounded form and attractive lobed leaves that turn yellow in fall.
Growing American Black Currant
Grow American Black Currant in part shade and medium water. Mature plants reach 24 to 60 inches tall and spread 24 to 48 inches wide. Expect low maintenance to keep it looking intentional in a front yard.
In an HOA neighborhood
American Black Currant is an HOA-friendly choice. Maintenance level: low. Tidiness: 4 out of 5.
Works well in: front yard, foundation, street edge, mid zone.
Wildlife value
The flowers attract bees and flies in May and June, while the berries provide food for birds and small mammals throughout summer.
Common questions
- When does American Black Currant bloom?
- Ribes americanum blooms in May and June, producing small yellow flowers that attract various pollinators.
- What pollinators visit American Black Currant?
- Bees and flies are the primary pollinators of Ribes americanum, visiting the flowers during the spring blooming period.
- Where is American Black Currant native?
- This shrub is native to 31 states across the United States, ranging from Maine to Montana and from the Great Lakes region south to Tennessee and New Mexico.
- What growing conditions does American Black Currant prefer?
- Ribes americanum grows well in partial shade to shade with medium moisture levels, though it can tolerate a range of light and water conditions.
- Is American Black Currant toxic to livestock?
- The USDA PLANTS Database does not flag American Black Currant as toxic to livestock.
- Is American Black Currant HOA-friendly?
- American Black Currant is generally an HOA-friendly choice in the right placement, with low maintenance.
Native range data from the USDA PLANTS Database and regional native plant society lists. Pollinator and host plant associations compiled from GBIF, iNaturalist, and published ecological literature.
Ready to grow American Black Currant? Add it to your garden in Pollinator Patch to track it and get season-by-season care guidance.
Not sure where to start? Take the 2-minute yard quiz