The
redcurrant (
Ribes rubrum) is a
deciduous shrub in the
gooseberry family, Grossulariaceae, which is native to western Europe. The plant normally grows to a height of up to one metre (3 ft), with its leaves arranged spirally on the stems. The flowers are inconspicuous yellow-green, maturing into bright red translucent edible
berries. An established redcurrant bush can produce 3 to 4 kilograms (7 to 9 lb) of berries from mid- to late summer. The species is widely cultivated, with the berries known for their tart flavor, a characteristic provided by a relatively high content of
organic acids and mixed
polyphenols. This photograph of a bunch of redcurrant berries was
focus-stacked from 15 separate images.
Photograph credit: Ivar Leidus