Currant – Ben Sarek (Black)

Description

Zone: 3 – 8

Height: 3-4′      Width: 3-4′

Full sun

Created by the Scottish Crop Research Institute, this black currant is mildew resistant and a heavy producer. Laden branches can be so heavy that they may require additional support.  Can be harvested by shaking the branch, or hand picked. Black currants have outstanding health benefits, including high Vitamin C content, up to 5 times that of oranges by weight. They have twice the potassium of bananas and twice the antioxidants of blueberries. The antioxidants, essential fatty acids and potassium in black currants have anti- inflammatory impact, reducing the effects of arthritis. Its antioxidant action has been shown to help prevent cancer. The strong flavor of Black Currants is highly prized in Europe, even fresh, but most Americans prefer them made into
jam, syrup or dried as raisins. Partially self-pollinating these plants produce best with at least one other variety for cross-pollinization.

Size: #2

Photo courtesy of  Saxo on wikimedia commons.