Appearance and Uses

Currant bushes make good hedges and they are attractive enough to use in shrub borders. In spring, insignificant, yellowish-green flowers bloom, followed in summer by long, hanging clusters of pea-sized berries. Once the berries appear, red currants are superior in appearance. The bright red fruit seems to glisten against the backdrop of the foliage. Both types have fragrant leaves that release a pleasant scent when crushed.

Flavor and Palatability

Both red and black currants are tart, and most people find them difficult to eat right off the bush. Those who have acquired a taste for currants find red currants slightly sweeter. Black currants have a musky flavor. Once processed as jellies, jams and pie fillings, red and black currants appeal to most people, although red is usually preferred. Black currant juice is popular in Northern Europe, more for its high nutritional value than its flavor.

Growth Habits

Red and black currants grow on shrubs that reach a height of 3 to 5 feet. Red cultivars keep a compact appearance, while black cultivars tend to spread out and sometimes become unruly. They grow in sun or partial shade, but do best in full sun in humid climates. The combination of high humidity and shade can lead to fungal diseases. It takes four to five years for the shrubs to reach full fruiting potential.

Disease Susceptibility

Currents are highly susceptible to powdery mildew and white pine blister rust, a devastating disease that kills white pines (Pinus strobus, USDA zones 3 through 8). White pine blister rust needs both a Ribes species and a white pine to complete its life cycle. The currant bush rarely suffers any damage, but the white pine usually dies. Black currants are much more susceptible than red currants, which has led to regulations that prohibit growing currents in some states. Additionally, the current is considered invasive in some areas of the United States. Check with your cooperative extension office to make sure they are allowed in your area before planting, and select the most disease-resistant cultivars that you can find. Black currants are also more susceptible to powdery mildew. Plant them in a sunny location with good air circulation to help control the disease.