Sierra Gooseberry
Ribes roezlii
Last reviewed: July 2026
Sierra Gooseberry (Ribes roezlii) 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.
The USDA PLANTS Database (opens in new tab) does not flag Sierra Gooseberry as toxic to livestock.
Light
part sun
Water
low
Size
24"–60" H × 24"–48" W
Bloom
Apr, May, Jun
Native to
CA, NV, OR
Pollinators
bees, hummingbirds
Browse plants for this ecoregion
Sierra gooseberry is a small to medium-sized native shrub with delicate magenta blooms in spring. It has attractive lobed leaves and produces small edible berries following flowering. This deciduous shrub tolerates drought and partial sun conditions well.
In an HOA neighborhood
Sierra Gooseberry is an HOA-friendly choice in the right placement. Maintenance level: moderate. Tidiness: 3 out of 5.
Works well in: mid zone, backyard only.
- Has thorns that may be a liability concern
- Can appear scraggly during dormant season
- Requires strategic placement away from pathways
Wildlife value
The spring flowers provide valuable nectar for bees and hummingbirds. The berries later attract birds and small mammals.
Common questions
- How much sun does Sierra Gooseberry need?
- Sierra Gooseberry grows best in part sun conditions.
- When does Sierra Gooseberry bloom?
- Sierra Gooseberry blooms in April, May, and June.
- Where is Sierra Gooseberry native?
- Sierra Gooseberry (Ribes roezlii) is native to CA, NV, OR, per the USDA PLANTS Database and regional native plant society lists.
- Is Sierra Gooseberry toxic to dogs?
- Sierra Gooseberry is not on the ASPCA Animal Poison Control Center toxic plant list for dogs (aspca.org).
- Is Sierra Gooseberry toxic to cats?
- Sierra Gooseberry is not on the ASPCA Animal Poison Control Center toxic plant list for cats (aspca.org).
- Is Sierra Gooseberry toxic to livestock?
- The USDA PLANTS Database does not flag Sierra Gooseberry as toxic to livestock.
- What pollinators does Sierra Gooseberry attract?
- Sierra Gooseberry draws bees and hummingbirds.
- Is Sierra Gooseberry HOA-friendly?
- Sierra Gooseberry is generally an HOA-friendly choice in the right placement, with moderate maintenance.
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.
Ready to grow Sierra Gooseberry? Add it to your garden in Pollinator Patch to track it and get season-by-season care guidance.
Not sure where to start? Take the 2-minute yard quiz