Blackcurrant and Redcurrant are often considered for the same spot in the garden (pollinator friendly). The data below shows where they differ: size, hardiness, care, toxicity and price.
Ribes nigrum 1.5 m × 1.5 m after 10 years
Blackcurrant is a fruit bush with strongly aromatic leaves and distinctive, vitamin C rich berries that ripen in June and July. Most varieties are…
Ribes rubrum 1.5 m × 1.5 m after 10 years
Redcurrant is an easy, low fruit bush that carries long strings of tart berries in June and July. A single bush crops on its own because it is…
Redcurrant needs less water than Blackcurrant.
|
Feature
|
Blackcurrant
|
Redcurrant
|
|---|---|---|
| Group | Fruit | Fruit |
| Size after 10 years | 1.5 m × 1.5 m | 1.5 m × 1.5 m |
| Ultimate size | 1–1.8 m × 0.9–1.5 m | 1–1.5 m × 0.9–1.5 m |
| Growth rate | Fast | Medium |
| Light | Full sun, Part shade | Full sun, Part shade |
| Soil | Average garden soil, Clay | Average garden soil, Clay, Acidic |
| Hardiness | down to -34 °C (USDA 4, RHS H7) | down to -34 °C (USDA 4, RHS H7) |
| Foliage | Deciduous | Deciduous |
| Flowering | April–May, green | April–May, green |
| Water need | High | Medium |
| Drought tolerance | Low | Low |
| Maintenance | Medium | Medium |
| Planting distance | 120 cm | 120 cm |
| For dogs | Non-toxic (uncertain) | Non-toxic (uncertain) |
| For children | Non-toxic (uncertain) | Non-toxic (uncertain) |
| Typical price | approx. €10 | approx. €9 |
Prices are rounded, indicative values. Toxicity data is for information only. If your pet or child has eaten a plant, contact a vet or a doctor. Data updated: October 13, 2026
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