Downy currant, Nordic currant

Ribes spicatum

The blossom and leaves of the downy currant can be used for tea and other drinks and the stem as a spice. The seeds can be made into oil for food and oilments. The substances of the plant level down cholesterol and stimulate the circulation of body fluids.

The downy currant, or Nordic currant, grows to be slightly higher than one metre. The leaves are 4-6 cm wide and heart-shaped at their base. The berries are smaller than those of the garden red currants, and they ripen in August – September. The plant grows in groves and on creeks. The berries and especially the leaves are rich in vitamin C.