Black Currant
Latin: Ribes laxiflorum
Description: Black currant is a shrub with trailing branches up to 1 meter off the ground. The leaves grow alternately and have 5 toothed lobes similar to a maple leaf. The undersides of the leaves have hairs, while the top of the leaf is smooth and hairless. The flower stalks are hairy and extend with 5 to 10 flower clusters. The berries are purple-black with a waxy bloom and small hairs.
Harvest and Sustainability: The berries are harvested in the late summer when they plump and soft. Black currants typically thrive in moist forests, as well as along clearings and roadsides.
Uses: Berries are good to eat fresh, but were typically eaten with ooligian grease. They can also be used as jams, sauces, or juice.
When eaten in large quantities, it may have a mild laxative quality.
