European Gooseberry

Ribes uva-crispa

Grossulariaceae · broadleaf deciduous shrub · introduced

Data Maturity Structured

This profile synthesizes data from multiple published sources. Expert field review is in progress.

In Western Washington, afternoon shade reduces powdery mildew pressure and heat stress. This regional practice is valuable in the maritime climate where humidity and summer warmth can favor mildew development.

— HortGuide editorial

Field Observations

Ribes uva-crispa - flower
Field Observation
Ribes uva-crispa · Gooseberry
flower
April 21, 2026 · Kent · 1,480 GDD₃₂ · BBCH 61
Ribes uva-crispa 'Pixwell' - new leaf
Field Observation
Ribes uva-crispa 'Pixwell' · Gooseberry
new leaf
March 22, 2026 · Kent · 930 GDD₃₂ · BBCH 11

Quick Facts

Height
3–5 ft
Spread
3–5 ft
Growth Rate
Moderate
Light
Part Shade to Sun
Soil
Well Drained
Water
Moderate
Hardiness
Zone Zones 3–8
Fall Color
Yellow
Origin
Europe, northwestern Africa, southwestern Asia

Phenological Calendar

Stage Typical Window
Bud swell BBCH 01 Feb 15–Mar 10
Leaf emergence BBCH 11 Mar 10–Mar 30
Beginning of flowering BBCH 61 Mar 20–Apr 15
Fruit set BBCH 71 Apr 15–May 15
Fruit ripe BBCH 87 Jun 15–Jul 15
Leaf senescence BBCH 93 Oct 1–Nov 1