Ribes altissimum
Ribes altissimumfam. Rosaceae
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Pl. 603D — Ribes altissimum
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IOverview
Overview
Ribes altissimum, commonly known as the Altai gooseberry, is a shrub native to regions including Albania, Algeria, Austria, Bulgaria, and parts of Asia such as Kazakhstan and Mongolia. This plant thrives in moist, light (sandy), medium, or heavy (clay) soil with a pH between 6.5 and 7, making it adaptable but preferring well-drained conditions. Known for its edible fruit, the Altai gooseberry is hardy in zones 5-9 and can grow up to 3 meters tall. Its native range extends across Europe and parts of Asia, contributing to its genetic diversity and resilience.
Quick answers
What is Ribes altissimum?
Ribes altissimum, commonly known as the Altai gooseberry, is a shrub native to regions including Albania, Algeria, Austria, Bulgaria, and parts of Asia such as Kazakhstan and Mongolia. This plant thrives in moist, light (sandy), medium, or heavy (clay) soil with a pH between 6.
Growingconditions · propagation · uses
VCultivation
Cultivation
Ribes altissimum thrives in moist, well-drained soils that can be light (sandy), medium, or heavy (clay). It prefers partial to full sun and is hardy in temperate regions with zones 5-9. This shrub grows up to 3 meters tall and requires regular watering to maintain its moisture needs. For best results, ensure the soil pH is between 6.5 and 7. Propagate through cuttings or seeds for new plants.
Light
5/10
Water
Moist
Soil
Light (sandy), Medium, Heavy (clay)
Hardiness
5-9
Habit
Shrub
Mature size
3.0 m tall
Soil pH
6.5–7
For first-time growers
How to grow Ribes altissimum for the first time
8steps
Start with a simple shrub that thrives in various conditions, making it perfect for beginners.
- 1
What you'll need
Skip cuttings or seeds, a pot if container planting, and basic gardening tools.
- 2
Best time to plant
Plant Skip in spring or early fall when the weather is mild.
- 3
Soil and container prep
Ensure soil is well-draining with a pH of 6.5–7; use light, medium, or heavy soil types.
- 4
Sowing or transplanting
Transplant Skip cuttings directly into the ground or pot them in spring after danger of frost.
- 5
First two weeks
Water regularly to keep the soil moist but not waterlogged; avoid direct sunlight for a week.
- 6
Ongoing care
Provide light shade, especially during hot summer months. Prune lightly in late winter or early spring.
- 7
Harvest or pruning
Prune Skip annually to maintain shape and encourage fruiting; harvest fruits when they are fully colored.
- 8
Common mistakes
Overwatering, planting in full sun, neglecting regular pruning, using incorrect soil pH, and not providing enough shade.
VIEdible & utility
Edible & utility
Edible parts:Fruit
Edible uses: The fruit of Ribes altissimum is edible and can be eaten raw or used in various preparations. Typically, the fruits are harvested when ripe and consumed fresh, added to salads, or made into jams and preserves. They can also be dried for later use. Skip the detailed preparation methods as per the given data.
Contextrange · companions · related
VIIDistribution
23 native · 3 introduced
Distribution
23 native · 3 introducedDistribution across3 continents· 23 native· 3 introduced
Europe14 regions
native (11)AlbaniaAustriaBulgariaFranceGermanyItalyPolandRomaniaSpainSwitzerlandUkraine
introduced (3)HungaryNetherlandsSweden
Asia3 regions
native (3)ChinaKazakhstanMongolia
Africa1 region
native (1)Algeria
Broader regions
native:Buryatiya, Chita, Czechoslovakia, Irkutsk, Krasnoyarsk, Altay, Tuva, Yugoslavia
IXSpecimen gallery
1 image
Specimen gallery
1 imageXSee also
8 related
See also
8 relatedPlants you might compare or use together — scored by shared family (Rosaceae), common use cases, and growing requirements.
same family · Rosaceae
Botanical relatives — often share phytochemistry + growing needs.
XI
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Companion planting
Compare with similar plants
Growing zone
XII
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Back to the cataloguePlant id · 603de3d6-36c3-408d-b537-c975830ea414
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