Ribes viscosissimum

Ribes viscosissimum belongs to the family of the Grossulariaceae. This plant is native to North America, especially in the west of the United States and Canadas, where it grows in mountain regions and forests. Ribes viscosissimum is characterized by their striking flowers, the sticky leaves and stems as well as their importance for the local fauna.

Morphology

Ribes viscosissimum is a deciduous shrub that reaches a height of 1 to 2 meters. The shrub has an upright, branched growth, whereby its stems and leaves are covered with sticky glandular hair, which give the plant their name "viscosissual" (Latin for "very sticky"). These glandular hairs are a characteristic feature of the plant and can help to ward off pests or store moisture.

The leaves are changeable and maple -like with 3 to 5 deeply cut rags. They are about 5 to 10 cm long, have a sawn edge and are hairy on both sides. The top of the leaf is dark green, while the underside is lighter and denser hairy. When rubbing the leaves, they exude a characteristic fragrance that is typical of many types of genus Ribes.

The flowers of Ribes viscosissimum appear in late spring to early summer and are arranged in grape -like inflorescences, which consist of several bell -shaped single flowers. Each flower has five crown leaves that are whitish to light pink. The inflorescences can reach a length of up to 10 cm and are also sticky due to the glandular trichome that cover the plant.

After the flowering period, small, round berries form that have a diameter of about 6 to 8 mm. The fruits are initially green and later mature to a reddish-violet color. Although the berries are edible, they are considered less tasty and are not used commercially. However, they are estimated by wild animals, especially birds, which contribute to the spread of the seeds.

Habitat and distribution

Ribes viscosissimum mainly occurs in the mountain regions of the western North America, including the Rocky Mountains and the cascade chain. She prefers moist, shady locations in forests, along streams and on mountain slopes, where it benefits from the cool, humid conditions. The plant grows at altitudes between 500 and 2,500 meters above sea level and prefers well -permeable soils that are rich in organic substances.

The plant is widespread in regions with moderate climate and thrives in both sunny and partially shaded locations. It is adapted to different types of soil, but prefers slightly acidic to neutral floors, which are well supplied with moisture. Due to its robustness and adaptability, Ribes viscosissimum is often found in disturbed areas, where it acts as a pioneering plant and contributes to stabilizing the soil.

Ecological meaning

Ribes viscosissimum plays an important role in the ecosystem of the mountain regions. The sticky leaves and stems offer protection against some herbivore, while the flowers represent a valuable source of food for pollinators such as bees, butterflies and flies. Bees in particular use the rich nectar that the plant produces during its flowering.

The berries of Ribes viscosissimum are an important source of food for birds and other small mammals. By eating the berries, these animals contribute to the spread of the seeds, which contributes to the natural rejuvenation and spread of the plant. Even deer and other larger herbivores occasionally use the plant as a source of food, especially in the cooler months when other food sources are scarce.

Another ecological aspect of Ribes viscosissimum is her role in the ground stabilization. The plant forms a dense root plant that contributes to the prevention of erosion, especially on slopes and in disturbed areas. This makes them an important part of plant societies in mountainous regions.

Use in garden culture

In the garden culture, Ribes viscosissimum is used less frequently than ornamental plant due to her sticky leaves and stems as well as her less attractive fruits. However, it is valued in natural gardens and landscapes that aim to promote wildlife and preserve local plants. Especially in wild gardens that are geared towards pollinators and birds, Ribes viscosissimum can play an important role.

The plant is easy to care for and only requires minimal care as long as it is planted in a damp, well -permeable soil and at a partially shaded location. It is hardy and resistant to most diseases and pests, which makes it a durable and robust choice for natural landscapes.