What pollinates Ribes speciosum?

The tubular red flowers of Ribes speciosum are well suited to hummingbirds, which are its primary pollinators during the March to May bloom period.

How much water does Ribes speciosum need?

This shrub is adapted to low water use once established and tolerates dry summer conditions, though it can handle occasional moderate watering during its growing season.

What light conditions suit Ribes speciosum best?

It grows well in part sun to part shade, and can also handle full sun in cooler coastal climates, making it flexible for different garden spots.

Is Fuchsia-flower Gooseberry HOA-friendly?

Fuchsia-flower Gooseberry is generally an HOA-friendly choice in the right placement, with moderate maintenance.

Fuchsia-flower Gooseberry

Name: Pollinator Patch
Author: Pollinator Patch

Ribes speciosum

Last reviewed: September 2026

Ribes speciosum is a shrub with arching, spiny stems and pendant red tubular flowers that open from March through May. It thrives in low-water gardens and chaparral-style plantings in California.

Fuchsia-flower Gooseberry (Ribes speciosum) is not on the ASPCA Animal Poison Control Center toxic plant list for dogs or cats (aspca.org (opens in new tab), last reviewed 2026-05-21). If your pet shows symptoms after eating any plant, call the ASPCA at (888) 426-4435.

Light

part sun

Water

low

Size

36"–72" H × 36"–72" W

Bloom

Mar, Apr, May

Native to

Pollinators

hummingbirds

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Browse plants for this ecoregion

Central California Foothills and Coastal Mountains Southern California Mountains Southern California/Northern Baja Coast

Fuchsia-flower gooseberry is a native shrub with striking red tubular flowers in spring. It has arching branches with glossy green leaves and prominent thorns that provide natural security. The plant is drought tolerant once established and adds vibrant color to woodland gardens.

Growing Fuchsia-flower Gooseberry

Grow Fuchsia-flower Gooseberry in part sun and low water. Mature plants reach 36 to 72 inches tall and spread 36 to 72 inches wide. Expect moderate maintenance to keep it looking intentional in a front yard.

In an HOA neighborhood

Fuchsia-flower Gooseberry is an HOA-friendly choice in the right placement. Maintenance level: moderate. Tidiness: 3 out of 5.

Works well in: mid zone, foundation.

Has prominent thorns that may be a concern near walkways
Can look somewhat bare during winter dormancy
Wild growth habit may need occasional pruning to maintain neat appearance

Wildlife value

The bright red tubular flowers are excellent at attracting and supporting hummingbirds during spring bloom. Its dense branching structure also provides good shelter for birds.

Common questions

What pollinates Ribes speciosum?: The tubular red flowers of Ribes speciosum are well suited to hummingbirds, which are its primary pollinators during the March to May bloom period.
How much water does Ribes speciosum need?: This shrub is adapted to low water use once established and tolerates dry summer conditions, though it can handle occasional moderate watering during its growing season.
What light conditions suit Ribes speciosum best?: It grows well in part sun to part shade, and can also handle full sun in cooler coastal climates, making it flexible for different garden spots.
Is Fuchsia-flower Gooseberry toxic to dogs?: Fuchsia-flower Gooseberry is not on the ASPCA Animal Poison Control Center toxic plant list for dogs (aspca.org).
Is Fuchsia-flower Gooseberry toxic to cats?: Fuchsia-flower Gooseberry is not on the ASPCA Animal Poison Control Center toxic plant list for cats (aspca.org).
Is Fuchsia-flower Gooseberry HOA-friendly?: Fuchsia-flower Gooseberry is generally an HOA-friendly choice in the right placement, with moderate maintenance.

These answers were drafted with an AI model from this plant's data. Verify care details with a local expert.

Native range data from vouchered herbarium specimen records and regional native plant society lists. Pollinator and host plant associations compiled from GBIF, iNaturalist, and published ecological literature.

If something looks wrong

Common plant problems, and what to check first

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