Native Plant Database

Header Photo: Mervin Wallace

Missouri Gooseberry

Ribes missouriense
Plant Type: Shrubs
Native Environment: Savanna / Woodland
Season of Interest: Mid (May - June)
Main Color: White
Fall Color:

USDA PLANTS Range Map

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Sun Exposure 
Full Sun, Medium Sun/Average Shade
Soil
Moisture
Dry, Moderate
Nature Attracting
Pollinators/Beneficial Insects
Wildlife Benefit
Butterfly / Moth Host, Cover, Food/Birds, Food/Pollinators, Food/Small Animals, Nesting
Animal
Resistance
Deer Resistant, Rabbit Resistant
Size

Height:

3 to
4
feet

Spread:

4 to
5
feet
Size
Height: 3 to
4
feet
Spread: 4 to
5
feet
Size
Height: 3 to
4
feet
Spread: 4 to
5
feet
Typical Landscape Use
The fruit can be harvested for pies and is also eaten by small mammals and birds. Plants provide good cover for wildlife. Plant in the vegetable garden, in bird gardens or along the edge of a woodland.
Establishment and Care Instructions
Grow in sun or part shade in well-drained soil with organic material to retain moisture.
Special Features
Special Usage
Edible
Basic Description

A thorny shrub with multiple trunks and arching branches. Clusters of drooping white flowers April-May. Edible, smooth, purple berries form June through September. Green comma and gray comma butterfly caterpillars feed on foliage. Note: This resource on this edible plant is intended as general information only. As with any foods, there is a potential for allergic reactions when consuming native edibles. Always seek the advice of a health professional with any questions about touching or eating any plant matter.

 

Green foliage of Ribes missouriense

Leaves of Ribes missouriense. Photo: James Faupel

Where Should I Start?

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Where Can I Find This Plant in Nature?

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