Ribes x houghtonianum
Ribes x houghtonianumfam. Rosaceae
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Pl. 4B15 — Ribes x houghtonianum
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IOverview
Overview
Ribes x houghtonianum is a hybrid shrub known for its edible fruit and adaptable nature across Europe, thriving in Belgium, France, Germany, Great Britain, the Netherlands, and Spain. This plant grows to about 2 meters tall and prefers moist, light (sandy), medium, or heavy (clay) soil with a pH between 6.5 and 7. Its fruit is edible and contributes to its ornamental value in gardens. One distinctive feature of this shrub is its ability to grow in hardiness zones 4-8, making it a versatile addition to various landscapes.
Quick answers
What is Ribes x houghtonianum?
Ribes x houghtonianum is a hybrid shrub known for its edible fruit and adaptable nature across Europe, thriving in Belgium, France, Germany, Great Britain, the Netherlands, and Spain. This plant grows to about 2 meters tall and prefers moist, light (sandy), medium, or heavy (clay) soil with a pH between 6.
Growingconditions · propagation · uses
VCultivation
Cultivation
Ribes x houghtonianum thrives in moist, well-drained soils that are light (sandy), medium, or heavy (clay). It prefers a pH range of 6.5 to 7 and requires partial shade with moderate light exposure. This shrub is hardy in temperate regions, specifically zones 4-8. For cultivation, ensure the soil remains consistently moist but not waterlogged. Propagate through cuttings or seeds. The fruit can be harvested for consumption.
Light
4/10
Water
Moist
Soil
Light (sandy), Medium, Heavy (clay)
Hardiness
4-8
Habit
Shrub
Mature size
2.0 m tall
Soil pH
6.5–7
For first-time growers
How to grow Ribes x houghtonianum for the first time
8steps
Start with planting Skip in your garden for a simple and rewarding experience.
- 1
What you'll need
Skip plants, well-draining soil, mulch, water can.
- 2
Best time to plant
Plant in spring or fall when the weather is cooler.
- 3
Soil and container prep
Ensure the soil is light (sandy), medium, or heavy with a pH of 6.5–7.
- 4
Sowing or transplanting
Transplant Skip from containers directly into the garden bed.
- 5
First two weeks
Water regularly to keep soil moist but not waterlogged.
- 6
Ongoing care
Provide light watering during dry spells and mulch around the base for moisture retention.
- 7
Harvest or pruning
Prune in late winter before new growth starts to encourage healthy fruiting.
- 8
Common mistakes
Overwatering, planting in heavy clay soil, neglecting winter protection.
VIEdible & utility
Edible & utility
Edible parts:Fruit
Edible uses: The fruit of Ribes x houghtonianum is edible and can be eaten raw or used in various preparations such as jams and jellies. The berries are typically harvested when ripe and can also be dried for later use.
Contextrange · companions · related
VIIDistribution
6 native · 24 introduced
Distribution
6 native · 24 introducedDistribution across2 continents· 6 native· 24 introduced
Europe10 regions
native (6)BelgiumFranceGermanyNetherlandsSpainUnited Kingdom
introduced (4)BulgariaFranceRussiaUkraine
Asia2 regions
introduced (2)ChinaMyanmar
Broader regions
introduced:Connecticut, Colorado, Michigan, New Brunswick, Illinois, Maine, Labrador, Iowa, Maryland, Massachusetts, Indiana, Minnesota, Montana, British Columbia, New Hampshire, New Jersey, Baltic States
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
Explore further
Companion planting
Compare with similar plants
Growing zone
XII
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Back to the cataloguePlant id · 4b15c4f6-0409-4a09-a2e8-bb5f93923b76
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