Question: Hello, I fear this might be eastern black currant (Ribes americanum). The habitat is right, stream floodplain -- it's growing …
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Question
Hello, I fear this might be eastern black currant (Ribes americanum). The habitat is right, stream floodplain -- it's growing in a swampy area at the end of a reservoir. On slightly higher ground, but a stone's throw from the ribes, is a stand of mature white pine. (The woods is mostly white pine, with some birch, beech, oak and cedar at slightly higher elevations.) If this is R. americanum, should the park staff be informed? Not sure what to do. Thanks. (North Providence, RI.)
Answer
Dear sldz22, good afternoon. You have photographed a species of Ribes, but I do not know which species without seeing flowers/fruits in addition to the stems and leaves. Note that Ribes americanum does not have prickles along the stem (as you specimen does). I'm not certain why you mention that you fear this might be that species, as R. americanum is a native shrub that is uncommon in parts of New England. Best wishes.
