Taxonomy

Division:

Magnoliophyta | - Flowering plants

Family:

Grossulariaceae

Genus:

Ribes

Species:

Ribes californicum

USDA Symbol:

RICA

Growth Characteristics

Life Cycle:

Perennial

Growth Habit:

Shrub

Height:

200 cm

Light Requirements:

Full Sun

Drought Tolerance:

Medium

Bloom Months:

feb,mar,apr

Bloom Colors:

greenish, purple

Landscaping Shrub:

Yes

Wildlife Benefits

Bees:

★☆☆☆☆ Documented bee visitation (GBIF)

Butterflies & Moths:

★☆☆☆☆ Documented Lepidoptera association (GBIF)

Caterpillars:

★☆☆☆☆ Recorded caterpillar host plant (HOSTS Database)

Host Plant for Caterpillars

Garden & Ecology Notes

Wildlife Value:

birds, butterflies, small mammals

Fall Color:

red, orange

Soil Requirements

Soil Type:

well-drained, rocky or sandy soil

pH:

5.5 - 7.5 (slightly acidic to neutral)

Drainage:

excellent drainage required

Moisture:

dry to moderate

Notes:

native to chaparral and woodland areas

Propagation & Germination

Stratification:

Cold/moist stratification required — 60–90 days

Germination Time:

30–60 days

Notes:

Seeds benefit from cold stratification for 2-3 months to break dormancy.