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.
Native Plant Database
Callicarpa americana. Photo: Mervin Wallace
Missouri Gooseberry
Ribes missouriense
Plant Type: Shrubs
Native Environment: Savanna / Woodland
Season of Interest:
Main Color: White
Fall Color:
Hardy From Zone:
Hardy To Zone:
Sun Exposure
Full Sun
Soil
Moisture
Dry, Moderate
Nature Attracting
Wildlife Benefit
Cover, Nesting, Butterfly / Moth Host
Animal
Resistance
Deer Resistant, Rabbit Resistant
Size
Height:
36 to
48
inches
Spread:
48 to
60
inches
Size
Height: 36 to
48
inches
Spread: 48 to
60
inches
Size
Height: 36 to
48
inches
Spread: 48 to
60
inches
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
Where Should I Start?
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Where Can I Find This Plant in Nature?
Learn about the Native Environment(s) inhabited by the plants in this database.