Ribes Nigrum 'Big Ben', Black currant, Height 60cm, 2 litre pot

The Ribes nigrum 'Big Ben', commonly known as Blackcurrant 'Big Ben', is a modern deciduous shrub known for its exceptionally large and tasty berries. This variety, introduced by the Scottish Crop Research Institute, is a member of the “Ben” series and is an excellent choice for fruit bush enthusiasts.

Features:

• Height and growth: This medium-sized shrub can reach a height of 1 to 1.5 meters. It has a bushy, upright growth habit.
• Leaves and flowers: The shrub has hand-shaped, green leaves that turn yellow in autumn. In April, the flowers appear in clusters, which are green with a red-purple hue. These are pollinated by bumblebees and bees.
• Fruit: The 'Big Ben' produces very large, juicy blackcurrants with a weight of up to 2.5 grams per berry, which is considerably larger than the average blackcurrant. The berries have a strong cassis aroma and are suitable for both direct consumption and processing.
• Harvest time: The berries ripen in early August, which is an early harvest time for blackcurrants. The yield is high, and the shrub is self-pollinating, so no second shrub is needed for fruiting.

Advantages:

• Hardy and robust: The shrub is very hardy and can withstand temperatures down to -18 °C. It is rarely affected by diseases and requires minimal care.
• Maintenance: Regular pruning is necessary to remove crossing branches and keep the shrub open. This promotes air circulation and reduces disease pressure. Some compost and a layer of mulch annually help to keep the soil moist.
• Use: Ideal for processing into jams, juices, and other culinary applications. The 'Big Ben' is also an excellent choice for hobby cultivation, thanks to its high yield and excellent taste.

Location and care:

• Light: This shrub prefers a sunny to semi-shady location.
• Bottom: Grows best in well-drained, moist soil. A layer of mulch helps keep the soil moist, especially during dry periods.
• Care tips: To keep the shrub healthy, it is important to prune it regularly and provide it with sufficient water, especially in dry periods.

The Ribes nigrum 'Big Ben' is a perfect choice for any garden enthusiast looking for a robust and productive blackcurrant with large, tasty fruits.