*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.

Growth characteristics: 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.

Blooms/fruits: 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.

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.

Attracts: Excellent bird & butterfly habitat: provides cover, nectar and fruits for food. Also

provides cover for small creatures like lizards.

Requirements:

Element Requirement

Sun Part-shade (morning sun fine) or dappled sun.

Soil Well-drained soils best; any local pH.

Water Best with occasional summer water – Water Zone 1-2 or 2. Don’t water on hot days

or get water on leaves/trunk.

Fertilizer Not needed; low doses likely fine.

Other Likes an organic mulch.

Management: 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.

Propagation: from seed: dried seed needs 2-3 month cold treatment by cuttings: yes

Plant/seed sources (see list for source numbers): 6, 8, 13 4/29/13 © Project SOUND