Ribes japonicum
Maxim.
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(c) Setsuna, some rights reserved (CC BY-NC-ND), uploaded by Setsuna
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(c) hakkahamushi, some rights reserved (CC BY-NC)
Summary
Source: WikipediaDeciduous shrub with hermaphrodite flowers pollinated by insects. Hardy to UK zone 7. Tolerates light sandy, medium loamy, and heavy clay soils with preference for well-drained conditions. Grows in mildly acid, neutral, or mildly alkaline soils. Suitable for semi-shaded woodland or full sun locations. Prefers consistently moist soil.
Description
Deciduous shrub with hermaphrodite flowers pollinated by insects. Hardy to UK zone 7. Tolerates light sandy, medium loamy, and heavy clay soils with preference for well-drained conditions. Grows in mildly acid, neutral, or mildly alkaline soils. Suitable for semi-shaded woodland or full sun locations. Prefers consistently moist soil.
Edible Uses
The fruit can be eaten raw or cooked.
Medicinal Uses
None known.
Distribution
It is a temperate plant.
Where It Grows
Asia, Japan,
Cultivation
Easily grown in a moisture retentive but well-drained loamy soil of at least moderate quality. Plants are quite tolerant of shade though do not fruit so well in such a position. Hardy to about -20°c. Plants can harbour a stage of 'white pine blister rust', so they should not be grown in the vicinity of pine trees. Plants in this genus are notably susceptible to honey fungus.
Propagation
Seed is best sown as soon as it is ripe in autumn in a cold frame. Stored seed requires 3 months cold stratification at 0–5°C and should be sown as early in the year as possible. Under normal storage conditions seed can remain viable for 17 years or more. Prick out seedlings into individual pots when large enough to handle, grow on in a cold frame for their first winter, then plant out in late spring the following year. Cuttings of half-ripe wood, 10–15cm with a heel, can be taken in July/August in a frame. Cuttings of mature wood of the current year's growth, preferably with a heel of the previous year's growth, can be taken November to February in a cold frame or sheltered bed outdoors.
Other Uses
None known.
Notes
There are about 150 Ribes species.
References (2)
- Melanges Biol. Bull. Phys.-Math. Acad. Imp. Sci. Saint-Petersbourg 9:221. 1873 (Bull. Acad. Imp. Sci. St.-Petersbourg 19:253. 1874)
- Plants for a Future database, The Field, Penpol, Lostwithiel, Cornwall, PL22 0NG, UK. http://www.scs.leeds.ac.uk/pfaf/
