Remarks

Golden current makes an attractive taller shrub at the edge of a lawn or vegetable garden, positioned to catch extra irrigation water. For three stunning weeks in spring it will be covered with tiny yellow flowers. I planted two in 2008, and have yet to notice the tasty berries, red currents, for which they are known. Quite cold hardy, if placed in full sun, it'll need twice a month watering to survive, or in half or more shade, once a month watering is sufficient. Multi stem shrub with small, rounded leaves with cut edges makes an attractive barrier or hedge plant. The leaves are reported to turn an attractive fall color, but they fall very early September. Golden current shrubs are spread by birds dropping seeds.

Wax current, Ribes cereum, is a shorter species to about 3 feet and more adapted to dry conditions, also less showy, blooming and fruiting later.

Use in Garden

A terrific habitat plant, and as a tall hedge or screen as they are fast growing with ample irrigation. Native plant shrub garden or for their fruit in the home garden.

Maintenance

With too much irrigation, golden current will sucker and form thickets. Prune out stems and branches to keep its spread in check.