Ribes divaricatum

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Ribes divaricatum 5391

Ribes divaricatum, commonly known as the spreading gooseberry, coastal black gooseberry, or straggly gooseberry, is a species of gooseberry native to the western coastal regions of North America, from British Columbia in Canada through to California in the United States. This deciduous shrub belongs to the Ribes family, which includes both gooseberries and currants. Ribes divaricatum is notable for its adaptability to various habitats, including moist forested areas, stream banks, and coastal bluffs.

Description

Ribes divaricatum is characterized by its spreading, sometimes sprawling habit, reaching heights of 1 to 3 meters. Its stems are armed with sharp spines and bristles, making the plant difficult to handle without protection. The leaves are 2 to 5 cm in diameter, with three to five lobes; they are green on the upper surface and paler below.

The flowers of Ribes divaricatum are small, with five petals ranging in color from white to pink, and appear in early spring. They are followed by the fruit, which is a dark purple to black berry, about 1 cm in diameter, covered with fine hairs. The berries are edible, though their taste is tart and somewhat astringent.

Habitat and Distribution

Ribes divaricatum is found in a variety of habitats, from sea level to mid-elevations in the mountains. It prefers moist locations and is often found in riparian zones, forest understories, and coastal bluffs. Its range extends from British Columbia in Canada, through Washington, Oregon, and into California in the United States.

Cultivation and Uses

While not as widely cultivated as some other gooseberry species, Ribes divaricatum is valued for its wildlife habitat, erosion control, and ornamental qualities. It is used in native plant gardens and restoration projects. The plant prefers partial shade but can tolerate full sun, and it requires well-drained soil. Once established, it is relatively drought-tolerant.

The fruit of Ribes divaricatum can be used in jams, pies, and other culinary preparations, though it is not as commonly harvested for food as other gooseberry species. The plant also serves as a host for the larvae of several butterfly and moth species, contributing to its ecological value.

Conservation

While Ribes divaricatum is not currently listed as endangered or threatened, its habitat is under pressure from urban development, agriculture, and invasive species. Conservation efforts focus on habitat preservation and restoration to ensure the survival of this species and its ecological role.

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See Also

• Gooseberry
• Currants
• Habitat conservation
• Native plant gardening