The Canadian Encyclopedia — neutral, cited, updated
July 26, 2026Sources cited
Canadianwire.
Canada’s encyclopedia & explainer
Home›Science & Nature›Plant›Red currant
Science & Nature • Plant

Red currant

Red currant is the common name for *Ribes rubrum*, a species of flowering plant in the gooseberry family (Grossulariaceae).

By Ethan Anderson| Reviewed by Olivia Bennett, Standards & Fact-Checking Lead| Updated July 26, 2026|2 min read| Fact-checked

Red currant is the common name for *Ribes rubrum*, a species of flowering plant in the gooseberry family (Grossulariaceae). It is native to western Europe and widely cultivated for its edible red berries. In Canada, red currants are grown in gardens and cool-climate fruit plantings.

Taxonomy

Red currant is usually used for *Ribes rubrum*, a species in the genus *Ribes* and the family Grossulariaceae. Related species and cultivars may be grouped under “red currants” in horticultural use.

Description

The plant is a deciduous shrub with small, translucent to bright red berries. It is grown for its fruit, which is typically tart rather than sweet.

Distribution and cultivation

*Ribes rubrum* is native to western Europe and is widely cultivated in temperate regions. It grows best in cool climates and is commonly found in gardens and fruit plantings.

Uses

Red currant fruit is used fresh and in processed foods such as jams, jellies, pies, and sauces. It is valued for its acidity and flavour in cooking and preserving.

Key facts

  • Red currant is a species of *Ribes* in the gooseberry family.
  • The species is native to western Europe and is widely cultivated.
  • Its berries are tart and commonly used in preserves and desserts.
  • The plant is a deciduous shrub and is often grown in cool climates.
  • In North America, the name “red currant” can also refer to *Ribes sanguineum*, a different species.
🍁
Canadian context

Red currants are grown in Canadian gardens and cool-climate fruit plantings, and the name may also appear in Canadian horticultural sources for related *Ribes* species native to western Canada.

Frequently asked questions

What is a red currant?
A red currant is a berry-producing shrub, usually *Ribes rubrum*, in the gooseberry family.
Where is red currant native to?
*Ribes rubrum* is native to western Europe.
What are red currants used for?
They are eaten fresh and used in jams, jellies, pies, and sauces.
Is red currant the same as flowering currant?
Not always. In North America, “red currant” can also refer to *Ribes sanguineum*, the flowering currant, which is a different species.
What family does red currant belong to?
Red currant belongs to the Grossulariaceae, or gooseberry family.

References

  1. Wikipedia — https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Redcurrant
    Supports: Identifies redcurrant/red currant as *Ribes rubrum*, native to western Europe, and widely cultivated.
  2. Utah State University Extension — https://extension.usu.edu/yardandgarden/research/red-currants-in-the-garden
    Supports: States that red currant (*Ribes rubrum*) is in the gooseberry family and native to western Europe.
  3. Encyclopaedia Britannica — https://www.britannica.com/plant/currant
    Supports: Notes that the common/garden/red currant (*Ribes rubrum*) is one of the most economically important currants.
  4. Native Plant Trust — https://gobotany.nativeplanttrust.org/species/ribes/rubrum/
    Supports: Describes garden red currant as a cultivated shrub with edible red berries and cool-climate preferences.
  5. U.S. Forest Service — https://www.fs.usda.gov/wildflowers/plant-of-the-week/ribes_sanguineum.shtml
    Supports: Provides context on the different North American species *Ribes sanguineum* sometimes called red currant.
  6. ScienceDirect — https://www.sciencedirect.com/topics/agricultural-and-biological-sciences/red-currant
    Supports: States that red currants in commercial berry production are derived from *Ribes rubrum*.