Feature Story
The Aromatic and Edible Golden Currant
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pring blooms in Missouri are legendary. Woodlands and landscapes filled with pinkishpurple of redbuds and the glowing white of dogwoods. They accompany the spring scent of renewal and promise of new growth. As one looks forward to that first deep breath of spring air, there is another plant whose understated blooms and grand fragrance is worthy of our senses. Golden currant (Ribes odoratum), also known as clove currant or buffalo currant, is a shrub whose spring aroma cannot be ignored. Its tantalizing scent will envelop the surrounding area, daring anyone or anything nearby not to notice.
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CONSERVATION FEDERATION
The small, charming, yellow tubular flowers line the branches of both male and female plants. The pollinated female flowers produce clusters of dark currants in late summer. Both the flowers and the berries are edible, with the latter being a favorite for jellies, jams, pies, and other culinary delights. Native to the limestone bluffs along the Current and White Rivers in southern Missouri, its range extends across the U.S. from Minnesota to Texas. Golden currant enjoys rich, well-drained soils, but will tolerate clay or poor soil. It produces fruit best in full sun with some afternoon shade, but will also grow in part shade.
