Black Currant 'Ben Sarek' is a compact deciduous shrub that produces dramatic clusters of glossy black fruit in early summer, thriving in cool climates across zones 3-7. This self-fertile variety grows 3-4 feet tall and wide, making it manageable for smaller gardens while delivering abundant harvests suitable for jams, jellies, and fresh eating. The greenish-yellow spring flowers give way to showy fruit that ripens in June-July, and the aromatic foliage adds interest even when the plant isn't bearing.
Partial Sun
Moderate
3-7
48in H x 48in W
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High
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The 'Ben Sarek' cultivar earns its reputation through reliable productivity in northern gardens where other black currants struggle. Its compact habit and rabbit tolerance make it a practical choice for hedgerow plantings, while the pendant clusters of fruit attract birds and create an ornamental display once berries darken. Cool summer preference means this shrub actually thrives where many fruits falter, rewarding northern gardeners with consistent yields.
Black currants are harvested for fresh consumption straight from the shrub or processed into jams, jellies, and pies. The fruit's distinctive tart-sweet character makes it particularly valued in preserves where the flavor concentrates beautifully. In regions where it's grown commercially, the berries are also dried or frozen for use in beverages, syrups, and baking.
No timeline data available yet for this variety.
Bare-root black currants are typically planted during dormancy in early spring or fall. Position the plant so the root collar sits at soil level, spacing plants 3-4 feet apart if creating a hedge. Ensure soil is well-draining and enriched with compost before planting.
Black currants ripen in June-July, darkening from green to deep black as they mature. Harvest by hand, picking berries that have turned fully black and feel slightly soft to the touch. Fruit in pendant clusters can be stripped by hand or carefully cut with shears to avoid damaging the canes for next year's fruiting.
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