1. *Canyon Gooseberry – Ribes menziesii
(RYE-bees
men-ZEE-see-eye )
Family: Grossulaceae (Gooseberry Family)
Native to: Central & North Coast of CA to OR as well as western Sierra foothills; several different
varieties grow from moist or marshy areas to drier hillsides, coastal canyons and foothills in
Redwood Forest, Mixed Evergreen Forest, Chaparral between 0 and 3500 feet.
woody shrub
mature height: 4-8+ ft.
mature width: 5-7 ft.
Open, many-branched shrub with arching branches. Branches very prickly (typical of gooseberries).
Leaves medium green, rounded, aromatic and velvety with glandular hairs. Very attractive growth
habit; slightly more open/graceful than our local Fuschia-flowered Gooseberry (Ribes speciosum).
Will drop leaves in hot summer/fall conditions.
Growth characteristics:
Blooms late winter/early spring (Feb. to April depending on weather). Flowers also
similar to Ribes speciosum: sepals are fuchsia or purple, petals are white and extend forward to form
a loose tube from which the stamens emerge. Flowers dangle from branches and resemble tiny
fuschia flowers; truly spectacular in bloom. Spiny dark fruits ripen in summer; edible.
Blooms/fruits:
Uses in the garden: Mostly used as an ornamental shrub because of its flowers. Also popular in bird
and butterfly habitat gardens – attract hummingbirds and fruit-eaters.
Spines make this a good
choice for a barrier or hedge. Fine under oaks. Beautiful and unique plant – just plant it back far
enough that you don’t brush against it. Native Californians cooked and dried berries for food.
Sensible substitute for: Non-native gooseberries.
Excellent bird & butterfly habitat: provides cover, nectar and fruits for food.
provides cover for small creatures like lizards.
Attracts:
Also
Requirements:
Element
Sun
Soil
Water
Fertilizer
Other
Requirement
Part-shade (morning sun fine) or dappled sun.
Well-drained soils best; any local pH.
Best with occasional summer water – Water Zone 1-2 or 2. Don’t water on hot days
or get water on leaves/trunk.
Not needed; low doses likely fine.
Likes an organic mulch.
Prune out old, dead branches when dormant in fall. Be careful not to over-water in
summer; consider locating this plant near an area that gets fairly regular water.
Management:
Propagation: from seed: dried seed needs 2-3 month cold treatment
Plant/seed sources (see list for source numbers): 6, 8, 13
by cuttings: yes
4/29/13
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