Ribes lobbii (Gummy Gooseberry)

Plant Description: A native fruit bearing shrub that is known to be relatively uncommon in the Portland area, but thrives in well draining, sunny locations. Flowers are akin to Fuschia, very showy, pink and magenta, blooming in earlier Spring. Set fruit in summer that is not particularly palatable, but has historically been eaten both raw and cooked  NEVER CONSUME PLANTS WITHOUT PROPER ID. Loves have 3 lobes and stems, like most all gooseberry, are spikey.

Height: 3 ft

Width: 3-5 ft, spreading species

Light Requirements: Full sun preferred, tolerates partial sun

Soil Requirements: Well draining

Watering: Watering to get established and may need periodic water during significant dry spells, but minimal water preferred. Drought tolerant. 

Portland Plant List (PPL): Yes

Landscape Use and Ecological Function: This species is a pollinator and bird magnet. The flowers bloom earlier in the Spring season, providing necessary food for early pollinators. Hummingbirds are very attracted to the flowers and foraging birds enjoy the berries and the twiggy coverage. We recommend this species as a sunny woodland edge and dry meadows. This species has highly ornamental qualities and is excellent in most sunny gardens. 

*Photo courtesy of Seven Oaks Nursery