Sabine Gooseberry

Ribes uva-crispa ‘Sabine’

Prohibited to DE, ME, NC, NH & WV, and by permit only to MA, RI, and NJ.

The tasty, pinkish berries on this hardy variety are medium sized and show an unusual teardrop shape. While yields of 3# per plant in midseason are average, the dessert-quality fruits are of excellent quality. The bush is generally upright and 4′ x 4′ with some sprawling, and it’s less thorny than others. It hails from Ottawa, Canada where it is also know as Canada 0273.

Prefers sun to part shade in hotter summer climates. Evenly moist soils with optimal ph of 5.8-6.8 and amended with organic matter regularly will produce vigorous plants with best yields. Plants reach mature bearing age by years 4-5, but begin fruiting as early as year 2, and will remain productive for 15-20 years or more. Space at 4′-5′ for optimal airflow.

Gooseberries, highly prized in Europe as an important part of a well-rounded garden, have been sadly neglected in America, perhaps because people remember gooseberries as tart and mouth puckering – but sweet varieties are wonderful for fresh eating! Gooseberries generally ripen in July. We offer well-rooted, one-year bushes. Hardy to USDA Zone 3.

Click here to read our Gooseberry Growing Guide