Varieties and Cultivars of Red, White, and Golden Currants

2.1. Red Currant (Ribes rubrum, R. vulgare, R. petraeum)

Red currant is the most widespread type in this group. In cultivation, varieties have originated from several European species: red currant (R. rubrum), common currant (R. vulgare), and rock currant (R. petraeum) (Potapov et al., 2000; Kurennoi et al., 1985). These species provided red currant varieties with high winter hardiness and relative unpretentiousness.

Key botanical and biological features:

• Bushes are usually compact, up to 1.5–2 m tall, with more restrained growth than black currants (Tarasov et al., 1981).
• Leaves and shoots do not have the specific aroma characteristic of black currants, as they lack aromatic glands (Kurennoi et al., 1985; Tarasov et al., 1981).
• Flower buds may be either simple (producing only a flower cluster) or mixed, but replacement shoots develop from them only on sufficiently strong growths of 15–30 cm in length (Tarasov et al., 1981).
• The main difference from black currant is the arrangement of flower buds. In red and white currants, they are clustered at the boundaries of annual growths and are concentrated on bouquet spurs — perennial shortened fruit formations that live for 4–5 years or more (Tarasov et al., 1981; Potapov et al., 2000). This also determines the longevity of branches — skeletal branches retain high productivity for up to 7–8 years and even longer, unlike black currants, where fruiting is concentrated on 2‑ to 4‑year‑old growths (Kurennoi et al., 1985; Potapov et al., 2000).

Hardiness and requirements:

Red currant is more drought‑tolerant than black currant, thanks to a more powerful and deep root system — some roots penetrate to depths of 1.5–2 m (Potapov et al., 2000; Dankov, 2015). It also features high winter hardiness and successfully withstands harsh winters as far north as the northern regions (Kurennoi et al., 1985). At the same time, it is less demanding on soil fertility, although it gives higher yields on rich soils.

Flavour and use:

Red currant berries are most often sour or sweet‑sour in taste. They contain less vitamin C than black currants, but are rich in vitamins P, potassium, calcium, and iron (Dankov, 2015). They are rarely eaten fresh because of the acidity, but they are ideal for jellies, jams, compotes, and juices. In addition, the bright red clusters are very ornamental — this is one reason why red currants are often planted in gardens (Bowling, 2000).

Examples of common cultivars (in different regions):

• Russian and European: 'Dutch Red', 'Chulkovskaya', 'Shchedraya', 'Red Cross', 'Faya Fertile', 'White Versailles' (belongs to the white group, but biologically the same) (Kurennoi et al., 1985; Potapov et al., 2000).
• Among modern foreign cultivars, 'Rovada', 'Red Lake', 'Jonkheer van Tets', and 'Stanza' are often mentioned — they are valued for yield, long clusters, and disease resistance (Buckingham, 2010; Bowling, 2000).

2.2. White Currant

Strictly speaking, white currant is not a separate botanical species — it is a group of cultivars belonging to the same species as red currants, but with light‑yellow, cream, or white fruits (Potapov et al., 2000; Buckingham, 2010). Sometimes it is called a variety of red currant.

Differences from red:

• White currant berries are generally sweeter, contain less acid, and are therefore more often eaten fresh (Buckingham, 2010; Bowling, 2000). Some varieties, such as 'White Versailles' or 'Blanka', are specifically recommended for eating straight from the bush (Buckingham, 2010).
• The flavour is more delicate, but less intense than that of red currants.
• In all other parameters (bush shape, fruiting habit, branch longevity, winter hardiness, drought tolerance), white currants are identical to red ones.

Examples of cultivars:

• 'White Versailles' (an old, well‑known variety), 'Belaya Potapenko', 'Yuterbogskaya' (Potapov, 2000; Kurennoi, 1985).
• 'White Imperial', 'White Grape', 'Blanka' (Buckingham, 2010; Bowling, 2000).

When choosing white currants, keep in mind that their berries are less transportable due to thinner skin, and yields may be slightly lower than those of the best red cultivars.

2.3. Golden Currant (Ribes aureum, R. odoratum)

Golden currant stands apart. It belongs to a different subgenus and differs greatly from red and white currants in its properties. This species is native to North America and is characterised by high drought tolerance and salt tolerance, which is why it is often grown in southern arid regions (Dankov, 2015; Potapov et al., 2000).

Key features:

• Bushes are vigorous, reaching a height of 2–2.5 m, and are often used for shelterbelts and ornamental purposes (Kurennoi et al., 1985; Dankov, 2015).
• Leaves are shaped like gooseberry leaves, and flowers are bright yellow, gathered in large clusters, very decorative (Tarasov et al., 1981).
• Berries can range from dark brown to amber‑yellow, contain more sugars than black and red currants (up to 17%), but have a specific, “skunky” smell and aftertaste that not everyone likes (Bowling, 2000; Dankov, 2015). However, in processing (jams, wine), this aroma softens.
• In terms of vitamin content: rich in carotene and catechins, but vitamin C is less than in black currants (Dankov, 2015).

Fruiting and longevity:

• Flower buds of golden currant are mixed, set both on annual growths and on 1‑ to 2‑year‑old fruit spurs (Tarasov et al., 1981).
• Skeletal branches live up to 6–7 years, but branches aged 2 to 5 years are most productive (Tarasov et al., 1981).
• Important: golden currant has low self‑fertility; for a good harvest, cross‑pollination (by several varieties) is required (Tarasov, 1981; Kurennoi, 1985).

Winter hardiness and regionalisation:

Golden currant is less winter‑hardy than red currant and may suffer from frost in harsh winters in the middle belt. It is successfully cultivated in the southern regions of Russia (North Caucasus, Crimea, Uzbekistan) (Dankov, 2015). However, there are varieties that show relative resistance and can be grown in more northern areas provided there is good snow cover.

Examples of cultivars:

• In Russia, regionalised varieties include: 'Venus', 'Lyaysan', 'Shafak', 'Yubiley Altaya', 'Nakhodka' (Dankov, 2015).
• In amateur gardening, 'Crandall' and other American forms are also found (Bowling, 2000).

Thus, before choosing a variety, you must clearly understand which type you need: if you prefer sweet‑sour berries for jelly and jam, and value winter hardiness — choose red currant. If you want sweeter berries for fresh consumption — pay attention to white varieties. If you live in an arid region and are willing to experiment with an unusual taste — try golden currant, but do not forget to plant several different varieties for pollination.

Step 1. Assess the climatic conditions of your region

Start with the most important — how severe are winters and how hot are summers in your area.

• Winter hardiness: Red and white currants are among the most winter‑hardy species of the genus Ribes. They withstand frosts down to –35…–40 °C under snow cover (Kurennoi et al., 1985; Potapov et al., 2000). Therefore, for regions with cold winters (North‑West, Siberia, Urals), it is preferable to choose red‑white varieties rather than golden ones. Golden currant is less winter‑hardy; it is successfully grown in southern arid regions (Dankov, 2015). In the middle belt, golden currant may freeze in snowless winters.
• Drought tolerance: If your region often experiences summer droughts (south, steppe zones), pay attention to golden currant — it is the most drought‑tolerant thanks to its powerful deep root system. Red currant also tolerates drought better than black, but is inferior to golden (Potapov et al., 2000).
• Risk of return frosts: Red and white currants bloom early in spring and may suffer from frosts. If late spring frosts are common in your area, choose varieties with late flowering (e.g., some varieties are called “late‑flowering” — they are less prone to flower damage) (Buckingham, 2010).
• Sum of active temperatures: For berry ripening and good annual fruiting, currants need a certain amount of warmth. In cold regions with short summers, it is better to choose early‑ripening varieties, while in warm regions, you can also plant late ones.

Step 2. Determine the purpose of using the berries

Answer the question: what will you use the harvest for?

• For fresh consumption: Choose varieties with high sugar content and low acidity — usually white currants (Buckingham, 2010). In red currants, acidity is more pronounced, but there are also dessert varieties with a good balance. Try to find information about the sugar content of specific cultivars.
• For processing (jellies, jams, juices, wine): More acidic but high‑yielding varieties will do. Berries with high pectin content give good jelly. Red currants are traditionally considered the best for jelly (Bowling, 2000).
• For ornamental purposes: If bush beauty matters to you, pay attention to red currant varieties with long, bright clusters — they are very decorative. Golden currant is also attractive during flowering because of its yellow fragrant flowers (Bowling, 2000).
• Universal use: There are varieties that are good both fresh and processed — most often these are varieties with a good sugar‑acid index.

Step 3. Consider resistance to diseases and pests

Choose varieties that have shown resistance to the most common diseases in your region. This will significantly ease care and reduce the need for chemical treatments.

• Main diseases of red and white currants: anthracnose, septoria (white leaf spot), rust, powdery mildew (less common on red and white than on black currants and gooseberries). Some varieties are genetically resistant to these diseases (Buckingham, 2010; Bowling, 2000).
• Pests: currant borer, gall midges, aphids, sawflies. Resistance to pests also varies among cultivars.
• Septoria (white spot): If your region has a humid climate, prefer varieties resistant to this fungal disease (Bowling, 2000).

Step 4. Consider ripening times

To ensure a continuous supply of fresh berries, plant varieties of different ripening times.

• Early varieties: yield in July (e.g., late June to early July depending on the region). They are good for early consumption.
• Mid‑season varieties: main crop in mid‑July to early August.
• Late varieties: ripen in late July to August, allowing you to extend the harvest season.

By combining varieties of different ripening periods, you can stretch the harvest over 2–3 weeks.

Step 5. Learn about pollination requirements

• Red and white currants: most varieties are self‑fertile, i.e., capable of setting fruit from their own pollen, although cross‑pollination improves yield and berry quality (Kurennoi et al., 1985; Bowling, 2000). Therefore, for consistently high yields, it is still recommended to plant at least two mutually compatible varieties with the same flowering time (Kurennoi et al., 1985).
• Golden currant: has low self‑fertility; for good fruiting, cross‑pollination is strictly required. It is necessary to plant at least two, preferably three, different varieties (Tarasov et al., 1981).

Step 6. Assess the convenience of care and harvesting

Pay attention to the shape and habit of the bush.

• Upright and semi‑spreading bushes: more convenient for mechanical harvesting and hand picking, because branches do not lie on the ground and clusters are clearly visible. This is especially important if you have a large plantation (Kurennoi et al., 1985; Potapov et al., 2000).
• Spreading bushes: may take up more space and complicate care, but sometimes they are more productive.
• Bushes with long clusters: facilitate picking because berries are gathered in large bunches (Buckingham, 2010).

Step 7. Check the regionalisation of the variety in your region

The most reliable way to choose a variety is to refer to the State Register of Breeding Achievements of your country (for Russia) or to the recommendations of local experimental stations and universities. They list varieties that have been tested in specific regions and are recommended for cultivation. Varieties regionalised in your zone are most adapted to local soil and climatic conditions and are guaranteed to give a stable yield (Kurennoi et al., 1985; Dankov, 2015).

Different regions recommend different varieties. For example, for the North‑West of Russia, according to data from the 2000s, certain red and white currant varieties are recommended (Dankov, 2015). For the Central Black Earth zone, Siberia, and the Far East, there are their own sets (Kurennoi et al., 1985; Potapov et al., 2000). Always seek local recommendations.

Step 8. Purchase only healthy planting material

Even the best variety will not show its qualities if the seedling is infected with viruses or pests.

• Buy seedlings from specialised nurseries with a good reputation.
• Check seedlings: the root system should be well developed, fibrous, without swellings or rot. The above‑ground part should be free of cracks, mechanical damage, spots, and growths.
• Choose variety‑pure material to avoid mix‑ups.

Step 9. Remember the longevity of plantings

Red and white currants can bear fruit in one place for 15–20 years or more, and the productive period of a plantation is 8–12 years (Kurennoi et al., 1985; Potapov et al., 2000). Therefore, choosing a variety is a decision for many years. Golden currant is also long‑lived, but its productive period may be somewhat shorter.

Step 10. Test the taste (if possible)

If you have the opportunity to taste berries of different varieties at tastings or from neighbouring gardeners, be sure to take advantage of it. Personal impression of taste is an important factor, since you will be eating these berries for many years.

By following this algorithm, you will be able to choose varieties that best suit your conditions and preferences. Remember that there is no ideal “universal” variety — you always have to find a compromise between yield, flavour, resistance, and other characteristics. Good luck with your choice!

4.1. Europe

Europe is the historical centre of currant breeding, especially red and white. The majority of classic varieties, which still remain standards, were bred here.

Northern and Western Europe (UK, Netherlands, Germany, Poland, Baltic countries):

In these regions, currants have traditionally been grown on large areas for industrial processing (juices, jellies). It is here that varieties with high yields, uniform ripening, disease resistance, and suitability for mechanical harvesting were developed.

• Red currant: In the UK and the Netherlands, varieties with long clusters and large berries are common, e.g., 'Rovada' (a Dutch variety with record yields), 'Red Lake' (of American origin but widely grown in Europe), 'Jonkheer van Tets' (an old Dutch variety, early and reliable), 'Stanza' (late‑flowering, frost‑tolerant) (Buckingham, 2010). In Poland and the Baltic countries, varieties adapted to harsher winters are popular, e.g., 'Faya Fertile', 'Dutch Red' (Buckingham, 2010; Bowling, 2000).
• White currant: In Europe, dessert varieties for fresh consumption are especially prized. 'White Versailles' is an old French variety, one of the most famous, with large sweet berries, ripening early (Buckingham, 2010). 'Blanka' (or 'Blanca') is a modern variety, more productive and ripening a little later, often called a competitor to 'White Versailles' (Buckingham, 2010). 'White Imperial' is also mentioned as an excellent white variety (Buckingham, 2010; Bowling, 2000).

Southern Europe (Mediterranean): Here currants are grown on a smaller scale due to heat and drought. However, varieties adapted to these conditions exist. They often have increased drought and heat tolerance, although in general red and white currants prefer a temperate climate. In such regions, golden currant is more promising (Bowling, 2000).

4.2. North America

In North America (USA and Canada), currant breeding was long restricted due to bans on cultivation related to white pine blister rust. However, by the end of the 20th century, interest in the crop revived. Here, varieties with high disease resistance (especially to American powdery mildew) and ornamental forms were developed.

• Red currant: 'Red Lake' is one of the most widespread in the USA, noted for high yields, winter hardiness, and large bright red berries on long clusters (Bowling, 2000). 'Wilder' is similar to 'Red Lake' but with better resistance to leaf spots (Bowling, 2000). In the USA, European varieties are also cultivated.
• White currant: In America, white currants are less popular, but 'White Grape' and 'White Imperial' are found (Bowling, 2000).
• Golden currant: In the USA, on the contrary, golden currant (especially the species R. odoratum and R. aureum) is fairly widespread as an ornamental and fruit plant, especially in the arid western states. 'Crandall' is a well‑known variety, producing black berries with a specific sweet taste and resistant to diseases (Bowling, 2000).

4.3. Russia (main body of varieties)

Russia is one of the largest currant producers in the world. It holds a huge assortment base covering all climatic zones — from the North‑West to the Far East, from the steppe south to the taiga. Breeding work has been and is being carried out in several scientific centres.

Main breeding centres of Russia and their varieties:

• Research Institute of Horticulture of Siberia named after M. A. Lisavenko (Barnaul): This is one of the leading centres for currant breeding. Many winter‑hardy varieties for Siberia and the Urals were developed here. For red and white currants, varieties from this institute are known, but the main breeding focus is on black currants. However, the red currant assortment includes varieties such as 'Altaiskaya Krupnoplodnaya' and others (Dankov, 2015; Kurennoi et al., 1985).
• All‑Russian Research Institute of Horticulture named after I. V. Michurin (Michurinsk): A breeding centre for the Central Black Earth zone. Varieties well adapted to the middle belt were created here. Well‑known red currant varieties: 'Shchedraya', 'Chulkovskaya' (old), 'Krasny Krest' (Bowling, 2000; Kurennoi et al., 1985). For white: 'Versailles White' — old but still popular (Kurennoi et al., 1985).
• St. Petersburg State Agrarian University (SPbSAU): Scientists here, including E. I. Glebova, bred several varieties for the North‑Western region, but mainly black currants. For red and white, breeding was carried out in other institutions, but in the region, varieties such as 'Dutch Red', 'Viksne', 'Pervenets', 'Jonkheer van Tets', 'Natali', and white 'Yuterbogskaya' and 'Versailles White' are regionalised (Dankov, 2015).
• Ukrainian and Belarusian breeders: Breeding of currants was also carried out in Ukraine and Belarus. For example, in Belarus, varieties adapted to the conditions of that country were developed (mentioned in Kurennoi's book). However, in this overview we focus on Russian varieties.

Regionalised varieties for different regions of Russia:

Below is a list of varieties that were regionalised in the USSR/Russia as of the early 21st century (Dankov, 2015; Potapov, 2000). Some of them may be old but are still popular.

Red currant:

• For the North‑Western region: 'Dutch Red', 'Viksne', 'Pervenets', 'Jonkheer van Tets', 'Natali' (Dankov, 2015).
• For the Central Black Earth zone: 'Chulkovskaya', 'Shchedraya', 'Krasny Krest', 'Versailles White' (belongs to white, but usually listed here) (Kurennoi et al., 1985).
• For Siberia and the Far East: mainly varieties of Siberian breeding are regionalised, e.g., 'Altaiskaya Krupnoplodnaya', 'Ogni Urala' (mentioned in literature, but the exact list can be checked in regional catalogues) (Bowling, 2000).

White currant:

• 'Versailles White' — universal, grown in many regions.
• 'Belaya Potapenko' — bred in Russia, recommended for various zones.
• 'Yuterbogskaya' — regionalised in the North‑Western region (Dankov, 2015).

Golden currant:

• In Russia, 23 varieties were regionalised (as of 2014), among them: 'Venus', 'Lyaysan', 'Shafak', 'Yubiley Altaya', 'Nakhodka' (Dankov, 2015). They are intended for southern arid regions (North Caucasus, Crimea, Lower Volga region).

4.4. Other regions

• New Zealand and Australia: In these countries, currants are grown on a small scale, but there are commercial plantations, especially of black currants. Varieties are often imported from Europe. In New Zealand, for example, intensive growing technologies for black currants are mentioned, but information on red and white is less extensive (Bowling, 2000).
• Asian countries (China, Japan): In China, currants are not a traditional crop, but there is interest in some species. Golden currant, being drought‑tolerant, can be cultivated in northern and arid areas of China.

4.5. Practical advice for the home gardener

Wherever you live, the most reliable way to choose a variety is to consult your local horticultural service, experimental station, or regional variety catalogue. In most countries, there are official registers of varieties recommended for cultivation in specific climatic zones. For example, in Russia it is the State Register of Breeding Achievements, in the USA — recommendations from state universities (e.g., Cornell University), in the UK — recommendations from the RHS (Royal Horticultural Society).

Remember that varieties bred in your region or in similar climatic conditions will always be more reliable than exotic novelties.

5.1. Typical mistakes when choosing a variety

Mistake 1. Ignoring the climate zone

The most common mistake is buying seedlings that are not regionalised in your region. A variety that grows well in the south may freeze in the middle belt, while a northern variety in a hot climate will suffer from drought and produce small berries. Red currant is considered one of the most winter‑hardy berry crops, but even among its varieties there are differences (Kurennoi et al., 1985). Always pay attention to recommendations from the producer and local nurseries.

Mistake 2. Incorrect assessment of self‑fertility

Many amateur gardeners mistakenly believe that all currant varieties are self‑fertile and can bear fruit alone. This is not entirely true. Although most red and white currant varieties are indeed capable of setting fruit from their own pollen, cross‑pollination always improves yield and berry quality (Kurennoi et al., 1985). For golden currant, cross‑pollination is mandatory — without it there will be no harvest (Tarasov et al., 1981). The mistake here is planting only one golden currant bush and expecting abundant fruiting.

Mistake 3. Choosing a variety only by appearance or description

A picture in a catalogue or an enthusiastic description of “large, sweet berries” may not match reality. The taste and size of berries strongly depend on growing conditions, care, and climate. What is good in the south may not manifest in the north. Remember that white currant berries are generally sweeter than red ones, but this is a general rule, not a law for each specific variety (Buckingham, 2010; Bowling, 2000).

Mistake 4. Choosing a variety only by yield without considering taste

A high‑yielding variety may produce sour or watery berries unsuitable for fresh consumption. If you plan to eat berries fresh, be sure to check the flavour characteristics of the variety (sugar content, acidity) and, if possible, taste berries from other people’s bushes.

Mistake 5. Ignoring disease resistance

When choosing a variety, pay attention to its resistance to local diseases. A variety susceptible to anthracnose or septoria will require regular treatments, increasing labour and costs (Bowling, 2000). Disease‑resistant varieties require less care and produce a healthier crop.

Mistake 6. Buying seedlings of untested origin

Even the best variety may be mislabelled or infected with viruses. Buy seedlings only from reliable nurseries that have appropriate certificates. Viruses on currants (e.g., reversion) may be unnoticed in the first year but will later destroy the bush (Kurennoi et al., 1985).

5.2. Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Question 1: Do I need to plant several red currant varieties for pollination?

Answer: Although most red and white currant varieties are self‑fertile, planting 2–3 different varieties with the same flowering time improves yield and berry quality through cross‑pollination (Kurennoi et al., 1985). Moreover, this allows you to extend ripening times if you choose varieties of different seasons. For golden currants, having several varieties is mandatory.

Question 2: How does white currant differ from red in care?

Answer: In terms of agrotechnics, white and red currants are completely identical, as they are essentially the same crop with different berry colours (Potapov et al., 2000; Buckingham, 2010). The difference lies only in the taste of the berries and, possibly, yield (white varieties are often slightly less productive). Therefore, if you are looking for sweet berries for fresh consumption, choose white varieties; if you need a crop for processing, red varieties may be preferable.

Question 3: Can I get a harvest of golden currant if I plant only one bush?

Answer: No, golden currant has low self‑fertility (Tarasov et al., 1981). To get a good harvest, you need to plant at least two different varieties that bloom at the same time. If a neighbouring plot has a golden currant of a different variety, it might work, but it is better to plant several plants of your own.

Question 4: Which varieties of red and white currant are the sweetest?

Answer: Among white currants, 'White Versailles', 'Blanka', and 'White Imperial' are traditionally considered sweet (Buckingham, 2010). Among reds, there are also varieties with a good sugar‑acid balance, e.g., 'Rannyaya Sladkaya' (Russia), 'Jonkheer van Tets' (Buckingham, 2010). However, sugar levels strongly depend on growing conditions: in sunny years, berries are sweeter; in rainy years, more acidic.

Question 5: How do I know if a variety is suitable for my region?

Answer: The most reliable way is to consult the regional variety register (for Russia, the State Register of Breeding Achievements). It lists varieties regionalised for your region that have passed state trials. It is also helpful to consult local nurseries, experimental stations, or neighbouring gardeners.

Question 6: In what year after planting can I expect the first harvest?

Answer: Red and white currants begin to bear fruit in the 2nd–3rd year after planting, and reach full production by the 4th–5th year (Kurennoi et al., 1985). Golden currant also comes into bearing in the 2nd–3rd year. The first years’ yield will be small, but it increases over time.

Question 7: Can I plant red and white currants next to each other for cross‑pollination?

Answer: Yes, not only is it possible, but it is also desirable. Since white and red currants belong to the same species, they cross‑pollinate well. This improves the yield and berry quality of both types.

5.3. Quick summary checklist for choosing a variety

For convenience, here is a brief list of actions when choosing a red, white, or golden currant variety: