Description

Red Lake is a classic red currant variety grown for heavy clusters of bright red berries and a sharp, tangy flavor that shines in jelly, jam, syrup, and baking. The shrub stays fairly compact and is very cold-hardy, making it a solid pick for northern climates.

Plant facts

Type: Red currant (Ribes rubrum ‘Red Lake’)
USDA zones: 3–7 (often succeeds into zone 8 with some afternoon shade and steady moisture)
Mature height: about 3–5 ft
Mature width: about 3–5 ft
Growth habit: multi-stem shrub, upright to slightly spreading
Pollination: generally self-fertile, but another red currant nearby can increase yield

Fruit + flavor

Berry color: bright red
Berry size: small to medium, borne in long clusters (easy to pick by the cluster)
Flavor: tart-sweet, crisp, “classic red currant” bite
Best uses: jelly, jam, syrup, juice, baking, freezing (can be eaten fresh if you like tart fruit)

Fruiting time

Season: early to mid-summer in most climates
Typical harvest window: often late June through July (varies by location and spring temps)
How to harvest: pick clusters when berries are fully colored and the flavor has developed, then strip berries from the stems after picking if needed

Yield expectations (per plant)

Early bearing: usually meaningful crops start around year 2–3
Mature yield (good conditions): commonly about 6–10 lb per bush
High-end potential: roughly 10–15 lb per bush with ideal sun, moisture, and pruning

Growing preferences

Sun: full sun to partial shade (more shade helps in hotter summers)
Soil: well-drained soil with lots of organic matter
Moisture: consistent moisture improves berry size and reduces stress
Spacing: about 4–5 ft between plants for airflow and easier harvest

Pruning notes

Fruiting wood: best production comes from 2–3 year-old canes
Simple routine: remove the oldest canes each year and keep a mix of young and mid-aged canes for steady crops

Quick local note

Currant rules can vary in some areas, so if you have white pines nearby or you are unsure about local restrictions, it’s worth a quick local check before planting.