Ribes viburnifolium – Catalina Currant (Evergreen Currant)

A fragrant groundcover gem from the Channel Islands! This low-spreading California native features glossy, leathery dark green leaves that release a delightful spicy-aromatic scent when brushed. Delicate pink flowers in winter attract early pollinators, followed by small red berries that birds adore. Versatile and adaptable, it works beautifully as a groundcover, bank stabilizer, or draped over walls. One of the few shade-loving California natives that stays lush and evergreen year-round—perfect for challenging dry shade spots!

Why Grow Catalina Currant:

• Fragrant aromatic foliage—delightful when touched
• California native—perfectly adapted to SoCal conditions
• Thrives in dry shade where few plants succeed
• Evergreen groundcover (1-3 feet tall, 6-12 feet wide)
• Winter blooms attract early pollinators
• Extremely drought-tolerant once established

Planting Guide

Location:

• Part shade to full shade—ideal for dry shade conditions
• Tolerates some sun in coastal areas but prefers protection inland

Soil:

• Well-draining preferred but adaptable to most soil types
• Thrives in lean to average soil—no amendments needed
• Tolerates rocky or clay soil with adequate drainage

Planting:

• Spacing: 4-6 feet apart for groundcover; closer for faster coverage
• Depth: Plant at same depth as nursery container
• Containers: Possible but best as spreading groundcover in landscape

Watering:

• Water regularly until established (up to 1 year)
• Once established, water deeply but infrequently (monthly or less)
• Extremely drought-tolerant in shade—can survive on rainfall alone
• Minimal to no summer water needed once mature

Fertilizing:

• No fertilizer needed—thrives in poor soil
• Excess nutrients unnecessary

Pruning & Maintenance:

• Prune lightly to control spread or shape as desired
• Can be cut back hard to rejuvenate if becomes sparse
• Tip-prune to encourage denser growth
• Minimal maintenance—spreads naturally!

Harvesting:

• Berries edible but tart—birds prefer them
• Aromatic leaves can be enjoyed in situ

Pest & Disease:

• Generally pest and disease-free
• Excellent choice for low-maintenance landscapes
• Deer resistant

Companion Planting:

• Perfect under oaks and in dry shade with ferns
• Stunning with heuchera, native columbine, and woodland strawberry
• Pairs beautifully with coffeeberry and toyon
• Excellent for erosion control and wildlife habitat gardens