Red Lake Currant

Meet the Red Lake Currant, a classic variety bred in Minnesota and celebrated as one of the most widely planted red currants in North America. Perfectly suited to zone 2, this hardy plant is known for its abundant crops of tart, glossy red fruits that ripen from mid-July into August.

Red Lake currants are a jelly-maker’s dream, prized for their vibrant red colour and tangy tart flavour. While currant jelly is the star of the show, these versatile berries are also fantastic for pies, tarts, wine making and even fresh eating for those who enjoy a tart punch! The fruit is easy to pick and stores beautifully, lasting several months.

Expect your Red Lake Currant to start producing fruit within 2-3 years, with mature plants delivering bountiful clusters of up to 20 berries per strand. Each berry, around 1 cm in diameter, boasts a nearly translucent skin with rib-like lines, revealing the tiny seeds inside.

This variety thrives in full sun but is equally happy in partial shade, making it a versatile addition to your garden. Once established, these currants will reward you year after year with large, flavour-packed harvests.

Hardiness Zone: 2

Height at Maturity: 1.5 meter (5 feet)

Spread: 1.2 meter (4 feet)

Soil Preference: Well drained

Light Exposure: Full sun

Pollination: Self-fertile 

Latin Name: Ribes rubrum 'Red Lake'