Currants Currants generally are low-growing deciduous shrubs that reach three to six feet in height and have thorny or thornless stems. Currants can be grown in home Gardens and landscapes. They're also grown commercially and their fruit is fresh-frozen or used in jams and pies. A, B and C. Red currants are tart and often are used in jellies.
White currants are sweeter and can be consumed fresh.
Black currants are used to produce Creme de Cassis, a liqueur, as well as jellies and pastries. Currants do best in cool soil temperatures with full sun. They're winter hardy, growing in USDA Hardiness zones three to five. Native species are found in northern parts of North America, and will even grow at elevations up to 10,000 feet. Consequently, they perform better in some shade, as they may defoliate if temperatures exceed 86 degrees Fahrenheit for an extended period.