Wild Currant
Ribes glandulosum
Last reviewed: July 2026
Light
part shade
Water
medium
Size
12"–36" H × 12"–36" W
Bloom
May, Jun
Native to
WI
Pollinators
bees, flies
Wild currant is a low-growing native shrub that forms neat, compact mounds in partial shade. It produces small greenish flowers in late spring followed by red berries, and offers reliable three-season interest with attractive foliage that turns yellow in fall.
In an HOA neighborhood
Wild Currant takes more care to keep looking intentional in a front yard. Maintenance level: low. Consider it for backyard or mid-zone beds rather than the street edge.
Works well in: backyard only.
- Spreads by runners creating informal colonies
- Can look sparse and weedy in winter
- May be confused with non-native invasive currants
Wildlife value
The flowers attract native bees and beneficial flies in May and June. Birds enjoy the small red berries that ripen in summer.
Common questions
- How much sun does Wild Currant need?
- Wild Currant grows best in part shade conditions.
- When does Wild Currant bloom?
- Wild Currant blooms in May and June.
- Where is Wild Currant native?
- Wild Currant (Ribes glandulosum) is native to WI, per the USDA PLANTS Database and regional native plant society lists.
- What pollinators does Wild Currant attract?
- Wild Currant draws bees and flies.
- Is Wild Currant HOA-friendly?
- Wild Currant takes more care to look intentional in a front yard. Consider it for backyard or mid-zone beds rather than the street edge.
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 Wild 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