Gummy Gooseberry

Ribes lobbii

Physical Characteristics

Ribes lobbii is a deciduous Shrub growing to 1.8 m (6ft). See above for USDA hardiness. It is hardy to UK zone 7. It is in flower from April to May. The species is hermaphrodite (has both male and female organs) and is pollinated by Insects. Suitable for: light (sandy), medium (loamy) and heavy (clay) soils and prefers well-drained soil. Suitable pH: mildly acid, neutral and basic (mildly alkaline) soils. It cannot grow in the shade. It prefers moist soil.

Distribution

Western N. America - southern British Columbia to northern California.

Habitats

Woodland Garden Sunny Edge; Dappled Shade;

Edible Uses

Edible Parts: Fruit Edible Uses: Fruit - raw or cooked[101, 105, 161, 257]. Generally considered to be unpalatable, but they were occasionally eaten by some native North American Indian tribes[256].

Medicinal Uses

Astringent Poultice Salve The root has been used in the treatment of diarrhoea[257]. A poultice of the roots and salt water has been applied to mouth sores, body sores, blisters and carbuncles[257]. The root ash, mixed with oil, has been used as a salve on boils[257].

Known Hazards

None known