Sierra Currant
Ribes nevadense
Last reviewed: July 2026
Sierra Currant (Ribes nevadense) is not on the ASPCA Animal Poison Control Center toxic plant list for dogs or cats (aspca.org (opens in new tab), last reviewed 2026-05-21). If your pet shows symptoms after eating any plant, call the ASPCA at (888) 426-4435.
The USDA PLANTS Database (opens in new tab) does not flag Sierra Currant as toxic to livestock.
Light
part sun
Water
low
Size
24"–60" H × 24"–48" W
Bloom
Apr, May, Jun
Native to
CA, NV
Pollinators
bees, hummingbirds
Browse plants for this ecoregion
Sierra currant is a native deciduous shrub with pink to reddish flower clusters that bloom in spring. It grows well in partial sun and requires low water once established, making it drought-tolerant.
In an HOA neighborhood
Sierra Currant is an HOA-friendly choice in the right placement. Maintenance level: moderate. Tidiness: 3 out of 5.
Works well in: mid zone, foundation.
- Deciduous nature means bare branches in winter
- May look somewhat wild or informal if not pruned regularly
- Can spread over time if not maintained
Wildlife value
The flowers provide important nectar for bees and hummingbirds in spring. The summer berries are a food source for birds and small mammals.
Common questions
- How much sun does Sierra Currant need?
- Sierra Currant grows best in part sun conditions.
- When does Sierra Currant bloom?
- Sierra Currant blooms in April, May, and June.
- Where is Sierra Currant native?
- Sierra Currant (Ribes nevadense) is native to CA, NV, per the USDA PLANTS Database and regional native plant society lists.
- Is Sierra Currant toxic to dogs?
- Sierra Currant is not on the ASPCA Animal Poison Control Center toxic plant list for dogs (aspca.org).
- Is Sierra Currant toxic to cats?
- Sierra Currant is not on the ASPCA Animal Poison Control Center toxic plant list for cats (aspca.org).
- Is Sierra Currant toxic to livestock?
- The USDA PLANTS Database does not flag Sierra Currant as toxic to livestock.
- What pollinators does Sierra Currant attract?
- Sierra Currant draws bees and hummingbirds.
- Is Sierra Currant HOA-friendly?
- Sierra Currant is generally an HOA-friendly choice in the right placement, with moderate 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 Sierra 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