Ribes malvaceum Rana White - 'White Chaparral Current'

Ribes malvaceum 'Rana White' - White Chaparral Current

Common Name: Chapparal Currant

Pot Size: 1 Gallon

Ribes malvaceum 'Rana White' is an unusual form of the chapparal currant in that it has pure white flowers, not the typical pink flowers one normally sees. Thanks go to the Monterey Chapter of the CNPS and a Carmel Valley wild plant for propagating this lovely cultivar found on Hwy 1 north of Big Sur.  This deciduous Ribes grows in an erect form up to 6 feet tall, has dark green aromatic foliage and white flowers that bloom in late winter, early spring.  

Plant Type: Deciduous to evergreen shrub                                                                         

Size:  Up to 6 feet tall and wide.                                                                                           Light: Full sun to light shade                                                                                               Soil: Well drained                                                                                                                 Water: Extremely drought tolerant, but with moderate water, plant is evergreen                 Bloom Color and Season: Winter and early spring short pendant racemes of fragrant white flowers                                                                                                                         Other Notes: Clusters of sticky berries follow the blooms                                                  Uses: Attractive to bees, birds and hummingbirds. Suitable for under oaks and shady locations that are relatively summer dry.

Photo: KD Apostolos