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Clove Currant (Buffalo Currant)

Ribes odoratum

Deciduous Shrub

Height

5 - 6 (feet)

Spread

5 - 6 (feet)

Distinctions

Very similar to golden currant, but less hardy; identified by the larger flowers, sepals are half the length of the petals; flowers smell like cloves; scarlet fall leaf color.

Limitations

Irregular open habit with age; suckers; looks best with rejuvenation pruning; fruit usually not edible but ornamental; needs good air circulation to prevent powdery mildew.

Hardiness

SC, SE (Zone 4)

Origin

South Dakota to western Texas, east to Arkansas and Minnesota

Cultivars

Crandall’ has large, edible, black fruit.

Clove Currant (Buffalo Currant)
Clove Currant (Buffalo Currant)
Clove Currant (Buffalo Currant)