American Gooseberry
Ribes cynosbati
Last reviewed: June 2026
Light
part sun
Water
medium
Size
24"–48" H × 24"–48" W
Bloom
May, Jun
Native to
AL, AR, CT, GA and 23 more states
Pollinators
bees, beetles
American gooseberry is a native shrub that produces small, edible berries in summer. This compact, rounded shrub has thorny branches and develops attractive fall color before dropping its leaves.
In an HOA neighborhood
American Gooseberry takes more care to keep looking intentional in a front yard. Maintenance level: moderate. Consider it for backyard or mid-zone beds rather than the street edge.
Works well in: backyard only.
- Thorny branches may be considered hazardous
- Informal growth habit looks unmanicured
- Can appear bare and scraggly in winter
Wildlife value
The spring flowers attract bees and beetles for pollination. The berries provide food for birds and small mammals in summer.
Native range data from the USDA PLANTS Database and regional native plant society lists. Pollinator and host plant associations compiled from GBIF, iNaturalist, and published ecological literature.
Does American Gooseberry fit your yard? Open it in Pollinator Patch to check it against your sun, soil, and HOA-conscious filters.