Topsy Black Currant

Topsy is a Canadian heritage black currant associated with William Saunders in Ottawa around 1890. The historical account describes large clusters of fairly thick skinned berries with a pleasant, briskly acidic flavour.

It was recorded as a vigorous, moderately productive midseason shrub. Its reported currant and gooseberry pedigree is historical documentation rather than a modern genetic confirmation.

Cold hardiness zone: 3

Botanical name: Ribes 'Topsy'

History: Canadian heritage selection associated with William Saunders around 1890

Fruit: Large clusters with a pleasant, briskly acidic flavour

Season: Historically described as midseason

Growth: Vigorous shrub