Eastern Prickly Gooseberry

(Ribes cynosbati)

Eastern Prickly Gooseberry (Ribes cynosbati)

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Estimated Native Range
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Summary

Ribes cynosbati, commonly known as Eastern Prickly Gooseberry, is a deciduous shrub native to the understory of deciduous forests, often found in moist, well-drained soils along forest edges and stream banks in the Eastern United States. It typically grows to a height of up to 1.5 meters (4 feet 11 inches) with erect to spreading stems. The plant’s leaves are palmately lobed, usually with 3 or 5 lobes, and are covered with glandular hairs, giving them a slightly sticky texture. The flowers, which bloom in late spring, are inconspicuous, greenish-white, and hang in clusters. The round fruits are notable for their bristly exterior and can range from white to greenish, ripening to a purple-black color and are known for their pleasant, tart flavor.

Eastern Prickly Gooseberry is valued for its wildlife benefits, as the fruits provide food for birds and mammals. It is suitable for naturalistic plantings and can be used in native plant gardens or as part of a mixed shrub border. This shrub is relatively low-maintenance, tolerating a range of soil conditions, but it prefers moist, well-drained soils and can grow in full sun to part shade. While it is not commonly found in the nursery trade, it can be propagated by seeds or cuttings. Gardeners should be cautious of the plant’s sharp thorns when handling. Potential problems include mildew and leaf spot diseases, and the plant can be a host for white pine blister rust, so it should not be planted near susceptible pine species.CC BY-SA 4.0

Plant Description

  • Plant Type: Shrub
  • Height: 2-4 feet
  • Width: 1-2 feet
  • Growth Rate: Moderate
  • Flower Color: N/A
  • Flowering Season: Spring
  • Leaf Retention: Deciduous

Growth Requirements

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

Common Uses

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

Natural Habitat

Understory of deciduous forests, often found along forest edges and stream banks

Other Names

Common Names: American Gooseberry, Pasture Gooseberry, Prickly Gooseberry, Dogberry, Dogbramble, Hunds-Stachelbeere, Hagebutten-Stachelbeere, Groseillier Des Chiens, Groseillier Piquant, Groseillier Ronce De Chien, Groseillier-Ronce Des Chiens

Scientific Names: , Ribes cynosbati, Ribes cynosbati var. cynosbati, Grossularia cynosbati, Ribes cynosbati var. atrox, Ribes cynosbati f. inerme, Ribes cynosbati var. glabratum, Ribes huronense, Ribes cynosbati f. cynosbati, Grossularia cynosbati var. inermis

GBIF Accepted Name: Ribes cynosbati L.