Botanical profile

Ribes nigrum 'Ben Sarek'

Latin name
Ribes nigrum 'Ben Sarek'
Common name
Blackcurrant 'Ben Sarek'
Type
Fruit shrub
Family
Grossulariaceae

Ribes nigrum 'Ben Sarek', known as ‘Ben Sarek’ blackcurrant, is a compact variety particularly suited to small gardens and urban vegetable patches. This deciduous fruit shrub forms a dense, relatively low bush that produces abundant fruit despite its small size. In spring, small, discreet greenish-pink flowers appear, attracting pollinating insects. These are followed by clusters of very aromatic, deep black blackcurrants. The fruits are renowned for their rich, intense flavor, typical of blackcurrants, with a slight sweetness that makes them pleasant to eat fresh or in desserts. They are also excellent for homemade jams, juices and syrups. The berries are rich in vitamin C and antioxidants. The dark green foliage gives off a characteristic aromatic odor when crushed.

Care guide

Growing conditions

Light, soil, water and hardiness

Hardiness zone
Zone 3
Exposure
Sun to partial shade
Watering
Moderate, keep soil cool during fruiting
Fertilization
Add compost or fruit tree fertilizer in spring
Soil type
Rich, cool, and well-drained soil
Minimum temperature
-40°C
Plant appearance

Blooming, foliage and shape

Blooming period
Spring
Flower color
Pinkish green
Fruiting
Very aromatic, deep black berries with a rich, slightly sweeter taste
Foliage color
Dark green
Foliage type
Obsolete
Shape
Vigorous bushy shrub
Garden structure

Size and growth

Height
3 ft (1 m)
Width
3 ft (1 m)
Growth rate
Moderate
Vegetable garden and yield

Companion planting, spacing and harvest

Fruit tree type
Blackcurrant bush
Pet friendly
Safe for pets

Pets

Pollinators
Attracts or supports pollinating insects

Pollinators

Butterflies
Plants that attract butterflies

Butterflies

The availability of our plants varies depending on arrivals, seasons, nursery production and supplier availability. Some varieties may be offered for a limited time only, depending on their natural cycle or current stock. These plant profiles are designed to guide and inspire you when choosing plants for the garden, landscaping projects, containers or long-lasting outdoor arrangements.