Ribes Somerset White – 4-5 Litre

4-5 Litre Pot

• Position: Full sun
• Soil: Moist, well drained
• Growth Rate: Average
• Flowering Period: Spring
• Hardiness: H6
• Eventual Height: 1.5 – 2.5m
• Eventual Spread: 1 – 1.5m

Ribes Somerset White, commonly known as ‘White Flowering Currant’  is a deciduous shrub that is highly valued for its stunning display of fragrant white flowers in the Spring. This particular cultivar is widely grown in the United Kingdom and is cherished for its ornamental beauty and versatility in garden settings.

This Ribes typically reaches a mature height 0f 2.5 metres and spread of about 1.5 metres, making it a relatively compact shrub suitable for smaller gardens or as part of mixed borders. It has an upright growth habit with arching branches that give it an elegant appearance.

The shrub features attractive, palmate leaves composed of three to five lobes. The leaves emerge in Spring with a bright green colour and mature to a darker shade of green as the season progresses. In the Autumn, the foliage often turns shades of yellow, adding another dimension of visual interest to the plant.

One of the most captivating features of this Ribes is its abundant and beautiful flowers. In early to mid-Spring, before the leaves fully develop, the shrub bursts into clusters of pendulous, bell-shaped white blossoms. These flowers are highly fragrant and emit a delightful scent that attracts bees, butterflies, and other pollinators to the garden.

Overall, this Ribes is a charming and versatile shrub that brings beauty, fragrance, and wildlife value to UK gardens. Its showy white flowers, attractive foliage, and easy-care nature make it a popular choice among gardeners looking to add elegance and visual interest to their outdoor spaces.

How to care for your Ribes Somerset White

• Soil: Prefers well-draining soil that is rich in organic matter. If your soil is poor, consider amending it with compost or aged manure.
• Watering: Keep the soil evenly moist, but not waterlogged. Water regularly during the growing season and reduce watering during the dormant period.
• Fertilising: Apply a balanced, slow-release fertiliser in the Spring to promote healthy growth and fruit production.
• Pruning: Produces fruit on old wood, so it is important not to prune too heavily. In late Winter, remove any dead or damaged wood, and thin out any overcrowded branches. Prune back the tips of the remaining branches to encourage lateral growth.