Description

This Catalina Island Island (and Baja) native is an oddball among California’s many currant species. Most currants are upright shrubs of medium height. Catalina currant is low and mounding. Most currants are semi-deciduous, while Catalina currant is evergreen. Most of our currants have round, lobed leaves that are finely textured. while Catalina currant has leathery, oval leaves. Catalina currant’s foliage is quite fragrant, another rarity among California’s currants. This rare native has small flowers of rose pink and produces edible berries in mild climates. Like other currants it will root if a node is in contact with soil through the rainy season. Catalina perfume does quite well in dry shade and thrives in a variety of soils. It is a great choice for planting under oaks.