Cherry White Currant

Description

Cherry White is a distinctive white currant that forms translucent berries, often with a soft pink blush as the clusters mature. The fruit balances mild sweetness with refreshing tartness and has a delicate appearance that stands out in the summer garden. Enjoy the berries fresh when fully ripe, spoon them over desserts, or turn the harvest into preserves, sauces, syrups, and baked fillings. Currant clusters are easiest to pick by supporting the stem and removing the entire strand rather than pulling berries individually.
This dormant bare-root perennial grows best in fertile, well-drained soil enriched with organic matter. Full sun supports production in cool and moderate climates, while afternoon shade can help protect foliage and fruit where summers are hot. Keep the root zone evenly moist, add mulch to moderate soil temperature, and prune during dormancy to maintain an open framework with productive younger wood. Allow at least three feet between plants for airflow and access at harvest.
Cherry White is self-fruitful, so one plant can set berries without a separate pollinizer. Bees and other insects still help move pollen among the flowers. The plant may arrive without leaves because it ships while dormant; new growth should begin after planting as local conditions warm.
Cherry White Currant

Details

Botanical type: Ribes spp., white currant

Plant form: One dormant bare-root perennial

USDA zones: 3–8

Chill requirement: Approximately 500–1,000 hours

Pollination: Self-fruitful; no partner is required

Light: Full sun to partial shade

Typical harvest: Summer, varying by climate and planting year

Some states or counties regulate Ribes because of white pine blister rust, so check local rules before planting near five-needle pines. Browse berries, vines, and perennial edibles, and use our currant growing guide for planting and pruning details.