The shrub on which redcurrants and blackcurrants grow most likely originated in Asia.
Today, currant bushes grow in the temperate climate zones of the northern hemisphere. The German name “Johannisbeere” (John’s berry) is fairly easy to explain: the season for currants begins around St. John's Day on 24 June.
They are a classic summer fruit, known all over Europe in more than 50 varieties. A trait they all share is the grape-like shape, short stems and the countless small pips embedded in the flesh. They do, however, vary in colour - anything from light red to black is possible.