About
Ribes bracteosum, the stink currant, is a deciduous, thornless shrub to around 3 m with palmate, deeply lobed, green leaves with an unpleasant aroma when crushed. Slender clusters of greenish-yellow flowers to 30 cm long in late spring are followed by small, round, black fruits with a white bloom. An ornamental shrub for a sheltered woodland garden.
About the genus
Ribes, the currants and gooseberries, are deciduous or evergreen shrubs, sometimes spiny, with simple, usually palmately lobed leaves and small, tubular or bell-shaped flowers borne in spring or summer, followed by juicy, sometimes edible berries. Ornamental and useful garden shrubs.
Growing conditions
SunlightFull shade, Partial shade
Soil typeChalk, Clay, Loam, Sand
Soil pHAcid, Alkaline, Neutral
Soil moistureMoist but well-drained, Poorly-drained
AspectEast-facing, North-facing, West-facing
ExposureSheltered
UK hardinessH7
Plant details
Plant typeShrubs
HabitBushy
FoliageDeciduous
Height2.5-4 metres
Spread2.5-4 metres
Time to full height5-10 years
Suggested usesCottage and informal garden, Wildlife gardens
Native toWestern N America
FragranceFoliage
Care notes
CultivationThrives in cooler climates and moist soil; suitable for stream banks, moist woodland and bog gardens
PruningNo pruning required
PropagationPropagate by seed or by hardwood cuttings in winter
Pest resistanceMay be susceptible to gall mites, gall midge and aphids
Disease resistanceMay be susceptible to a leaf spot, powdery mildews, honey fungus and coral spot