Ribes latifolium

Jancz.

Grossulariaceae Edible: Fruit 48 iNaturalist observations

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Summary

Deciduous shrub reaching 2m tall with hermaphrodite insect-pollinated flowers. Blooms May to June with seed ripening July to August. Tolerates light sandy, medium loamy, and heavy clay soils preferring well-drained conditions. Grows in mildly acid, neutral, or mildly alkaline soils. Suitable for semi-shaded woodland or full sun. Prefers moist soil.

Description

A shrub. It grows 1-2 m tall. It does not have thorns. The leaves are 7-12 cm long by 8-15 cm wide. The fruit are round and red.

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Edible Uses

The red fruit, up to 9mm in diameter, can be eaten raw or cooked.

Medicinal Uses

None known.

Distribution

It is a temperate plant. In northern China it grows between 1,100-1,500 m above sea level.

Where It Grows

Asia, China, Japan, Korea, Russia, Siberia,

Cultivation

We have very little information on this species and do not know if it will be hardy in Britain, though judging by its native range it should succeed outdoors in most parts of the country. It is a very ornamental plant. The following notes are based on the general needs of the genus. 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. 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 (3)

Bull. Int. Acad. Sci. Cracovie, Cl. Sci. Math. 1906:4. 1906
Flora of China @ efloras.org Volume 8
Plants for a Future database, The Field, Penpol, Lostwithiel, Cornwall, PL22 0NG, UK. http://www.scs.leeds.ac.uk/pfaf/