Hillside Gooseberry

(Ribes californicum)

Hillside Gooseberry (Ribes californicum)

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Estimated Native Range
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Summary

Ribes californicum, commonly known as Hillside Gooseberry, is a deciduous shrub native to the chaparral and forested slopes of California, particularly in the Coast Ranges and the Sierra Nevada foothills. It typically grows to a height of around 1.4 meters (4.6 ft) and is characterized by its spiny branches and foliage. The leaves are lobed and have a toothed margin, adding a textured appearance to the plant. The inflorescence consists of solitary flowers or a raceme of up to three flowers, which hang pendent from the branches. The flowers, blooming from late winter to early spring, have five sepals in shades of deep red or green with a red tinge, reflexed upward, and a tubular corolla of white or pinkish petals encircling five stamens and two longer styles. The flowers are moderately showy and attract pollinators. The fruit is an edible red berry about a centimeter wide, covered in stiff spines, and is enjoyed by local wildlife.

Hillside Gooseberry is appreciated for its drought tolerance once established, making it a suitable choice for water-wise gardens. It provides seasonal interest with its attractive flowers and edible berries, and is used in native plant gardens, as a border shrub, or for naturalistic landscaping. It thrives in part shade to full sun, prefers medium water, and adapts well to soils with medium drainage. While generally low-maintenance, it can be susceptible to powdery mildew and rust, especially when airflow is poor or in overly moist conditions. Gardeners should be cautious as the spines on the branches and fruit can be sharp.CC BY-SA 4.0

Plant Description

  • Plant Type: Shrub
  • Height: 3-8 feet
  • Width: 3-6 feet
  • Growth Rate: Moderate
  • Flower Color: Red, White
  • Flowering Season: Spring
  • Leaf Retention: Deciduous

Growth Requirements

  • Sun: Part Shade, Full Sun
  • Water: Medium
  • Drainage: Medium

Common Uses

Bee Garden, Bird Garden, Butterfly Garden, Deer Resistant, Drought Tolerant, Edible*Disclaimer: Easyscape's listed plant edibility is for informational use. Always verify the safety and proper identification of any plant before consumption., Hummingbird Garden, Low Maintenance, Rabbit Resistant

Natural Habitat

Chaparral and forested slopes of California, particularly in the Coast Ranges and the Sierra Nevada foothills

Other Names

Common Names:

Scientific Names: , Ribes californicum, Ribes californicum var. californicum, Ribes occidentale var. californicum,

GBIF Accepted Name: Ribes californicum Hook. & Arn.