1. * Hillside Gooseberry – Ribes californicum var. hesperium
(RIE-bees ka-li-FOR-ni-kum hes-PARE-ee-um)
Family: Grossulariaceae (Gooseberry Family)
Native to: Western Transverse ranges from Orange Co. to Ventura Co. – locally in San Gabriels,
Santa Monica Mtns; in wooded canyons below 2000' that provide shade, mostly in chaparral.
woody shrub
mature height: 3-6+ ft.
mature width: 3-6+ ft.
Upright, woody shrub with arching branches.
Drought-deciduous but will retain leaves with
occasional summer water; will also lose leaves in winter cold. Foliage typical for gooseberries, dark
green & shiny. Stems and berries have prickles (thorns).
Growth characteristics:
Blooms early (Jan-Mar.). Flowers are white-purple, in dense clusters beneath the
Small but pretty, and hummingbirds will guard them jealously.
Blooms/fruits:
leaves.
Uses in the garden: Often used in habitat gardens. Gives a woodsy look as a background plant.
Can be used as a prickly hedge. Refined looking – can be pruned for a more formal look. Good
choice under trees, shaded areas like north sides of buildings. Plant away from walkways. Fruits
are edible raw or cooked (excellent for wine, jellies & sauces) . Native Californians used a tea from
leaves to reduce fevers, and the wood for arrow shafts.
Sensible substitute for: Non-native currants & gooseberries; other deciduous shrubs.
Excellent bird habitat: provides cover, nectar for hummingbirds and fruit for
Mockingbirds, Grosbeaks and many others. Attracts native bees & other pollinators.
Attracts:
Requirements:
Element
Sun
Soil
Water
Fertilizer
Other
Requirement
Part-shade to quite shady.
Any local from sandy to clay; well-drained clays are excellent. Most local pH.
Looks best with occasional summer water (Zone 2) – no overhead. Tolerates some
winter flooding.
Organic mulch.
Easy to grow in right conditions. No overhead water in summer. Don’t plant near
pines as it harbors White Pine Blister Rust.
Management:
Propagation: from seed: fresh seed in fall or 3 mo. cold/moist by cuttings: semi-soft, hardwood.
Plant/seed sources (see list for source numbers): 1, 10, 12, 13 (var. californicum)
4/28/09
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