Ribes name to the popular blackcurrant cordial Ribena. The genus also includes the group of ornamental plants collectively known as the flowering currants, for instance "R. sanguineum". There are restrictions on growing some "Ribes" species in some U.S. states, as they are the main alternate host for white pine blister rust. Blackfoot Indians used blackcurrant root "(Ribes hudsonianum)" for the treatment of kidney diseases and menstrual and menopausal problems. Cree Indians used the fruit of "Ribes glandulosum" as a fertility enhancer to assist women in becoming pregnant. Currants are used as food plants by the larvae of some Lepidoptera species. Ribes
Ribes malvaceum and about twice as long as it is wide. The sepals are pink-purple in color and are 4–6 mm. Petals are 2–3 mm and can range in color from pink shades to white. The flower also contains two fused styles which are fused to the tip and have a hairy base. Striking glaucous purple berries are produced. The (6–7 mm fruit is glandular and covered by white hairs. There are several varieties of "R. malvaceum": "Ribes malvaceum" is cultivated as an ornamental plant by specialty plant nurseries. It is used in traditional gardens, native plant landscapes, and as bird food