Currant (Ben Lomond)

Ben Lomond is a highly productive black currant variety developed in Scotland and widely regarded as one of the best choices for home gardeners and commercial growers alike. It is prized for its large berries, heavy yields, excellent cold hardiness, and strong disease resistance.

The berries are large, glossy black, and borne in generous clusters. They have the rich, distinctive flavor black currants are known for, making them excellent for juices, syrups, jams, jellies, baking, and wine. Ben Lomond typically ripens in mid-season and is known for producing reliable crops even in colder climates.

Its vigorous growth habit, combined with its productivity and adaptability, has made it one of the most widely planted black currant varieties throughout Europe and North America.

🌸 Pollination

Ben Lomond is self-fertile, meaning it does not require another variety to produce fruit. However, planting multiple black currant varieties nearby can improve yields and fruit set.

🍇 Fruit & Growth Characteristics

🫐 Large glossy black berries

🌿 Rich, classic black currant flavor

📈 Heavy annual production

🍷 Excellent for juice, syrup, jam, wine, and baking

❄️ Exceptional cold hardiness

🌱 Vigorous, upright growth habit

🌱 Growing Information

• Height: ~4–6 ft

• Spread: ~4–5 ft

• Light: Full sun to partial shade

• Cold hardy (Zones 3–7)

• Upright, productive growth habit

🛡️ Disease Resistance

Ben Lomond is known for good resistance to powdery mildew and strong overall garden performance. It is a dependable variety that performs well across a wide range of growing conditions.

⭐ Why Grow Ben Lomond

Ben Lomond is one of the most reliable black currants available, combining large fruit, excellent productivity, cold hardiness, and strong disease resistance. Its dependable harvests and versatile fruit make it an outstanding choice for gardeners looking to grow their own nutrient-rich berries year after year.