Ribes malvaceum

Identification

Description

A five foot deciduous shrub with pink flower clusters in Oct.-Mar.. Native to slopes in the coast ranges. It likes sun in coast and cool climates to part shade inland with good drainage. It has fragrant flowers. The currant is red and edible but not too great. Birds will get it first anyway. We use the leaves in peppermint tea (along with R.indecorum). One leaf will add a distinct twist to your tea. This is also native on the property. This species will go summer dormant under drought stress, do not water it then, it will be back in the spring. If you want it to look better through the summer, mulch, and water a little extra in the spring. Click here for more about California Currants and Gooseberries