How Long Does an Alpine Currant Last?

Typical Lifespan

• Alpine currant doesn't demand a lot of care. When planted in the correct conditions, it can be expected to live about 30 years. Alpine currant is ideal for cold, windy climates and areas with alkaline soil. Hardy in U.S. Department of Agriculture plant hardiness zones 2 through 7, the shrub grows best when it receives moisture but tolerates drought conditions once it is established. Alpine currant will grow in full sun to partial shade.

Positive Characteristics

• The hardy shrub is a boon for a northern gardener because it grows vigorously in spite of extreme weather conditions. Its lobed leaves turn yellow in fall, and its rich-brown bark sometimes peels. If you've lost shrubs in the past to deer grazing, you might try alpine currant, which is deer-resistant. A female alpine currant produces inedible, small berries, but most alpine currants sold commercially are male clones. The shrub has a rounded form and grows 3 to 6 feet tall and wide.

Potential Problems

• Alpine currant is a sturdy plant but doesn't do well in humid, warm climates. In those conditions, the shrub is prone to anthracnose and leaf spot, which may reduce its lifespan. Alpine currant tolerates most soil types but are prone to rot in soggy soil. A female plant sometimes harbors pine blister rust. Because of that factor, some U.S. states have banned the sale and planting of alpine currant.

Uses

• Moderately fast growth combined with its long life expectancy and ease of care make alpine currant suitable to use as a foundation plant. It also can be pruned into a neatly clipped hedge. The shrub has small foliage and branches that grow low to the ground. Its flowers are insignificant and can be pruned almost year-round.