Swamp Red Currant
Ribes triste
Last reviewed: June 2026
Light
part shade
Water
high
Size
24"–48" H × 24"–48" W
Bloom
May, Jun
Native to
CT, ID, IL, MA and 18 more states
Pollinators
bees, flies
Swamp red currant is a low-growing native shrub that thrives in moist, shady areas. It produces small clusters of red flowers in late spring followed by red berries, making it useful for naturalized areas and rain gardens.
In an HOA neighborhood
Swamp Red Currant takes more care to keep looking intentional in a front yard. Maintenance level: moderate. Consider it for backyard or mid-zone beds rather than the street edge.
Works well in: backyard only.
- Requires consistently moist soil which may appear swampy
- Informal growth habit looks too wild for most front yards
- Name includes 'swamp' which signals maintenance concerns
Wildlife value
The flowers attract bees and flies in May and June. Birds enjoy the red berries in summer, and the dense growth provides nesting habitat for small songbirds.
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.
Does Swamp Red Currant fit your yard? Open it in Pollinator Patch to check it against your sun, soil, and HOA-conscious filters.