Currant 'Wellington XXX' (Black)

Black Currant ‘Wellington XXX’ (Ribes nigrum ‘Wellington XXX’) was bred in England for exceptionally sweet, candy-flavoured berries that ripen in midsummer. Unlike some currants, its fruit clusters are so heavy they bow the branches, making harvesting almost effortless. In late spring you’ll spot neat tiers of green catkins, then by July the glossy leaves are dotted with juicy jet-black berries perfect for jams or syrups. This variety resists common leaf diseases—no fuss, just flavorful fruit. It thrives in full sun or morning shade and rewards you year after year in Canadian Zones 3–7.

Key Features
• Botanical name: Ribes nigrum ‘Wellington XXX’
• Common name: Black Currant ‘Wellington XXX’
• Hardiness zones: Canada Zone 3–7
• Exposure: Full sun to light shade
• Soil: Rich, moisture-retentive but well-drained; pH 6.0–6.5
• Height & Spread: 1.2–1.5 m (4–5 ft) habit with gracefully arching stems
• Foliage: Deep green leaves turn bronze-red in fall
• Berries: Large, sweet-tart blackcurrants; harvest in July
• Maintenance: Minimal—prune only to remove old wood in late winter
• Advantages: Exceptionally sweet fruit, disease-resistant foliage, decorative in both flower and fruit