GooseberryPosted 10 years ago under Uncategorized

A popular fruit in England, gooseberries provide a large amount of nutrition. Gooseberries are rich in antioxidants and have been shown to help lower blood cholesterol and treat diabetes. ¹ Though typically eaten fresh, they’re also used in a variety of baked goods as well as savory dishes.²

Taxonomy

Kingdom (Plantae) → Angiosperms → Eudicots → Core eudicots > Order (Saxifragales) > Family (Grossulariaceae) → Genus (Ribes) → Species (Ribes grossularia)

Description

European gooseberries grow on shrubs that can reach up to six feet in width and 3 feet in height.  The leaves are dark green and glossy, up to a few inches in length. The flowers are green with petals that have pink on them. The fruit are berries with multiple, small seeds in them. Depending on the variety, they may be yellow, green, grey-green or varying shades of red or pink in color. The European gooseberry can range in size from an inch to the size of a small plum and has a slightly sour taste. ³

Distribution

The European gooseberry is native to North Africa and the Caucus Mountains, but grows now in temperate climates in Europe. Its close relative, the American gooseberry, has genetic origins in the European gooseberry. They thrive in areas with humid summers and cold winters. They do best with partial sun and can tolerate a wide range of soils as long as it is kept moist. ³ It prefers slightly acidic soils. ⁴

Nutritional Information

Gooseberries are a rich source of nutrition including dietary fiber, vitamins, and minerals. They are high in B vitamins, vitamin A, vitamin C, potassium, copper, iron, manganese and phosphorus. They are also high in phytochemicals including anthocyanins and flavones. These nutrients mean the glooseberry has anti-cancer, anti-aging, and anti-inflammation properties. ²

Commercial Cultivation

Gooseberries are typically grown from cuttings or seedlings from a nursery. For optimal results, these are planted in early spring.⁴ If grown from seed, they take five years to produce fruit. If grown from cuttings, they take only two years to produce fruit. ³ Gooseberries are harvested from late summer through fall.⁵

Diseases, Pests, Predators

Gooseberries are susceptible to diseases and pests common to humid environments. The most common fungal diseases include anthracnose, grey mold berry rot, currant cane blight, and septoria leaf spot. Common pests include aphids, borers, and stinkbugs. ⁴

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