// SPECIES PROFILE · SHRUB · NATIVE

American black currant

Ribes americanum

American black currant (Ribes americanum) is a shrub in the — family. Native range includes MO — verified against the Lady Bird Johnson Wildflower Center native distribution database. Hardy in zones 2a–9a. Mature size 29"–6'. Blooms Apr–May.

// QUICK FACTS

Family: —
Group: shrub
Native range: Native to 29 U.S. states, including CO, CT, DC, DE, IA, IL…
USDA hardiness: Zones 2a–9a
Mature size: 29"–6'
Sun: Part shade
Water: —
Bloom: Apr–May
Wildlife value: Pollinator and wildlife support
Ecological role: native species profile

American black currant (Ribes americanum) — *Ribes americanum* — American black currant. Photo by erutuon via Wikimedia Commons (CC BY-SA 2.0).

Field Notes

[ growing · ecology · siting · care ]

Why it's on this list: native species profile. Native-range data from the Lady Bird Johnson Wildflower Center (NPIN), cross-checked against iNaturalist observations. Part of Rooted Revival's regional native plant catalog — true natives for Oklahoma, Arkansas, Missouri and Kansas.

Companion Planting

[ guild · polyculture · cross-layer pairings ]

In the same native range, american black currant pairs naturally with: American Plum (Prunus americana), Smooth Sumac (Rhus glabra), Great ragweed (Ambrosia trifida), Texan great ragweed (Ambrosia trifida var. texana).