Ribes montigenum, commonly known as mountain gooseberry or western prickly gooseberry, is a deciduous shrub native to the montane and subalpine regions of western North America, from Washington to California and east to the Rocky Mountains. It thrives in high elevation habitats, including open coniferous forests, forest clearings, and rocky slopes. This species typically reaches up to 5 feet in height and width, with arching, prickly stems that deter herbivores. The leaves are deeply lobed, resembling a maple leaf, and the plant produces racemes of small, bell-shaped flowers that range from yellow-green to pale pink in color during the spring and early summer. The flowers are modest in size but can be quite numerous, adding a subtle charm to the plant. The berries, which ripen in late summer, are bright-red to orange-red, covered in soft bristles, and are known for their tart flavor.

Mountain gooseberry is valued for its wildlife-friendly attributes and its ability to thrive in challenging mountainous environments with minimal care. It is often used in native plant gardens, restoration projects, and as an ornamental in high-altitude landscapes. The plant prefers well-drained soils, tolerates a range of soil types, and requires moderate water. It is best suited to full sun to part shade conditions. While generally low-maintenance, Ribes montigenum can be susceptible to powdery mildew and rust diseases, and the thorns can make handling difficult. It is not known to be invasive when grown outside its native range, but gardeners should always monitor and manage their plantings responsibly.CC BY-SA 4.0