Fire-wise Ribes by Jackie Pascoe

Everyone who gardens in Santa Cruz, whether in town or out in the wildland-urban interface, has concerns about wildfires that affect how they garden. Some people think that California natives are more fire-prone than other garden plants, but this is a misconception. While following the established fire-safe guidelines–such as using fewer and less fire-prone plants and maintaining wider gaps between groups of plants–you can also support nature by planting suitable California native plants. In the thirty-foot zone around the house, many native annuals, perennials, grasses, and ferns can be great options, along with some well-spaced, low-growing shrubs, and farther from the home, larger shrubs can work too.

When assessing shrubs for a firesafe garden, experts recommend focusing on plant characteristics rather than trusting plant lists, which can vary. Some characteristics of fire-prone shrubs include fine twigs, shredding bark, leaves that are oily or resinous, small, narrow, or dry, and a tendency to retain dry plant material.

Ribes is a popular genus comprising the currants and gooseberries. Their plentiful blossoms are beautiful and provide early nectar for hummingbirds. Later, their berries support ceder waxwings and other birds. And – they also have many fire-resistant characteristics. For example, they have clean woody stems that are easy to prune. Their stems and leaves hold onto moisture during summer and have low oil or resin content. And they don’t retain dried up twigs or leaves.

Some other native shrubs with similar fire-resistant characteristics are coffeeberry (Frangula californica), toyon (Heteromeles arbutifolia), and manzanita (Arctostaphylos spp.). These also have plentiful flowers and berries, at different times of the year.

Currants and gooseberries are suitable for coastal gardens from shoreline to ridge top and you’ll find a variety of colors and forms among the many species. All are easy-going, fairly pest free, thrive in many different soils, and require little water. Pink-flowering currant (Ribes sanguineum var. glutinosum) likes moderate water; the rest are drought tolerant. Both pink-flowering currant and Catalina current (Ribes viburnifolium) prefer some shade; the rest do well in sun or partial shade. Ribes are easy to grow from cuttings. When pruning, it’s good to remember that blossoms grow on the prior season’s stems.

Maybe there’s a niche or two in your garden for a native current or two.

Jackie Pascoe