Coastal Black Gooseberry
Ribes divaricatumfam. Rosaceae
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Pl. 41ED — Ribes divaricatum
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IOverview
Overview
Coastal Black Gooseberry (Ribes divaricatum) is a shrub native to the Pacific Northwest and California, thriving in habitats from British Columbia to Washington. Known for its edible fruit and leaves, this plant can grow up to 2.7 meters tall and prefers moist, light to medium soil types, tolerating partial sun to full shade. Its adaptability makes it a valuable addition to gardens and landscapes within hardiness zones 4-8. One distinctive feature is its ability to produce small, edible berries that are both ornamental and useful for culinary purposes.
Quick answers
What is Coastal Black Gooseberry?
Coastal Black Gooseberry (Ribes divaricatum) is a shrub native to the Pacific Northwest and California, thriving in habitats from British Columbia to Washington. Known for its edible fruit and leaves, this plant can grow up to 2.
Growingconditions · propagation · uses
VCultivation
Cultivation
Coastal Black Gooseberry thrives in full to partial sun and requires moist soil that can be light (sandy), medium, or heavy (clay). It is hardy in zones 4-8 and grows up to 2.7 meters tall as a shrub. For propagation, use cuttings or seeds. The plant is native to British Columbia, California, Oregon, and Washington, making it well-suited for temperate regions with similar climates. Ensure the soil remains consistently moist, especially during fruiting, to promote healthy growth and abundant yields from both its leaves and fruit.
Light
Full sun, Partial sun/shade
Water
Moist
Soil
Light (sandy), Medium, Heavy (clay)
Hardiness
4-8
Habit
Shrub
Mature size
2.7 m tall
For first-time growers
How to grow Coastal Black Gooseberry for the first time
8steps
Start with a simple planting of Coastal Black Gooseberry in your garden for a rewarding beginner experience.
- 1
What you'll need
A young Coastal Black Gooseberry plant, well-draining soil, and water.
- 2
Best time to plant
Plant in early spring or late fall when the weather is cooler.
- 3
Soil and container prep
Ensure your garden has light, medium, or heavy soil that stays moist. Amend with organic matter if needed.
- 4
Sowing or transplanting
Transplant a young plant from a nursery pot into the ground, ensuring it's at the same depth as in its container.
- 5
First two weeks
Water regularly to keep the soil moist. Avoid overwatering which can lead to root rot.
- 6
Ongoing care
Provide full sun or partial shade, and water when the top inch of soil feels dry. Prune lightly in late winter to maintain shape.
- 7
Harvest or pruning
Prune in late winter to encourage new growth and remove any dead branches.
- 8
Common mistakes
Overwatering, planting too deep, neglecting regular pruning, not providing enough sunlight, and using harsh pesticides.
VIEdible & utility
Edible & utility
Edible parts:FruitLeaves
Edible uses: The Coastal Black Gooseberry's fruit and leaves are edible. The fruit can be eaten raw or cooked in jams and pies. Leaves are sometimes used fresh in salads but are more commonly prepared as a tea. Both parts add a tart flavor to dishes.
Other uses:CraftingWeaving material
Contextrange · companions · related
VIIDistribution
4 native · 2 introduced
Distribution
4 native · 2 introducedDistribution across1 continent· 4 native· 2 introduced
Europe2 regions
introduced (2)NorwayUnited Kingdom
Broader regions
native:California, Oregon, Washington, British Columbia
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
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Growing zone
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