Gooseberry - Ribes uva-crispa (Care, Characteristics, Symbolism, Images, Edible)

Gooseberry

Gooseberry (Ribes uva-crispa) is a deciduous shrub that can grow from 61 to 152 cm tall. Greenish-yellow flowers bloom in spring followed by edible dark-red berries that ripen from summer through fall. It grows in full sun to partial shade. Plant in fall or fall and prune in summer and winter to maximize fruit production. It attracts butterflies and birds to its sweet fruit.

Scientific classification

Species

Gooseberry (Ribes uva-crispa)

Saxifrages, stonecrops and allies

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Toxic to Humans

Toxicity

Perennial

Lifespan

Shrub

Plant Type

Mid spring, Late spring

Bloom Time

Spring, Summer

Harvest Time

1.5 m

Plant Height

90 cm to 1.2 m

Spread

Green

Leaf Color

2 mm to 3 mm

Flower Size

Red, Green

Fruit Color

Green

Flower Color

Winter dormancy

Dormancy

Deciduous

Leaf type

5 - 32 ℃

Ideal Temperature

Images of Gooseberry

Distribution of Gooseberry

Distribution Map

Gooseberry is native to parts of Europe, North Africa, and Western Asia. It thrives in temperate regions and has been introduced to parts of Northern and Eastern Europe, as well as East Asia, Southeast Asia, Australasia, and North America. This plant has adapted well outside its native range and is cultivated in various regions crosswise the globe.

Native

Cultivated

Invasive

Introduced

No species reported

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Habitat

Woods, hedges, by streams

Hemisphere Trend Curve

Northern

Sorthern

Culture

Symbolism

Sympathetic

Name Story

Gooseberry: The specific epithet uva-crispa literally means "curved grape". The French word for gooseberry is groseille à maquereau meaning "mackerel berries" which is probably due to their use in a sauce for mackerel in old French cuisine. However, in Britain, gooseberries may be called goosegogs. Nevertheless, the plant is called gooseberry.

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Cultivars

There are several recognized cultivars of Gooseberry, including the following common varieties :

Gooseberry 'Hinnonmäki Röd'Gooseberry 'Invicta'

Toxicity

Gooseberry leaves contain hydrogen cyanide precursors, released upon contact with stomach acid. The toxic gas causes rapid symptoms: dizziness, headache, vomiting, and potential heart and respiratory failure. Consume berries cautiously to avoid diarrhea. Fence off gooseberry plants to protect children. Avoiding contact with the leaves is critical for safety. Keep animals at a distance as well.

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Care Guide for Gooseberry

Every 1-2 weeks

Water

Full sun

Sunlight

5 - 32 ℃

Ideal Temperature

Garden Soil

Soil Type

Water: Gooseberry thrives in cool, temperate regions, showing a balance between drought tolerance and consistent moisture needs. Water gooseberry once every 1-2 weeks. Mulching outdoors helps retain soil moisture and minimizes watering frequency during the active growing season.

Fertilize: Gooseberry thrives with balanced nutrition fertilizers, applied once in early spring and monthly thereafter. Use about a tablespoon per plant to promote vigorous growth, flowering, and fruit yields. Avoid over-fertilization; adjust feeding according to growth phases. Slow-release forms are effective for gradual nutrient uptake.

Pruning: Gooseberry requires pruning in early to late winter while dormant. Focus on dead or weak stems and overcrowded branches to improve air circulation, encourage new growth, and enhance fruit yield. Proper pruning also boosts disease resistance and fruit quality. Refer to horticultural sources for guidance.

Propagation: Gooseberry is easily propagated through cuttings, using methods like tip layering, hardwood cuttings in autumn, or softwood cuttings in spring. A well-draining medium, regular watering, and sheltered conditions support rooting. Young plants should be acclimated before permanent transplantation.

Repotting: Repot gooseberry in late winter during dormancy to reduce stress. Use a larger container every 2-3 years with good drainage. Post-repotting, ensure gooseberry has well-draining soil, partial shade, and consistent watering while avoiding waterlogging for optimal health.

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Images of Gooseberry

Distribution of Gooseberry

Culture

Cultivars

Toxicity

Care Guide for Gooseberry

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