How to Manage Pests

Ribes, Currant, Gooseberry—Ribes spp.
Family Grossulariaceae (Gooseberry family)

Plant Identification

Ribes spp. are often divided into two categories:  currants, which do not have spines, and gooseberries, which do have spines.  Leaves are rounded with lobed or toothed edges.  Many species produce clusters of showy, bright yellow, white, pink, red, or purplish flowers.  Some species have drooping flowers, resembling those of fuchsia.  Yellow, red, or black berries form after bloom.

Optimum conditions for growth

Ribes spp. do well in areas with full sun or partial shade.  Plants vary in water needs; some require little to no water while others require moderate or regular amounts of water.  Cut back plants to maintain growth. 

Leaves and red fruit of foothill gooseberry