Black Swamp Gooseberry (Ribes lacustre)

Black swamp gooseberry is a very hardy species that can tolerate a wide range of soil types and conditions, although it prefers partial shade and some moisture. It is an erect to spreading shrub with spiny, bristly stems, dark green, glossy, deeply lobed leaves, and dangling clusters of small, creamy-pink to maroon flowers that are attractive to pollinators. The dark purplish-black fruits are enjoyed by a wide variety of wildlife, and are edible to humans as well, but they are somewhat bland and are best mixed with more flavourful berries. Black swamp gooseberry is an easy to grow plant that adds character to moist, shady areas of the garden, and is valuable in providing food and habitat for birds.

Sun Exposure: Prefers partial shade, can tolerate full shade and full sun
Soil & Moisture: Mesic to moist
Mature Size: 2'-6' tall
Bloom Time: Spring to early summer
Edible: Yes
Wildlife Value: Berries are eaten by a wide variety of birds and mammals. The flowers attract hummingbirds.
Native Range & Habitat: Commonly found in moist woods, thickets, streambanks, and riparian areas at low to high elevations. Widely distributed from Alaska south to California, and east to Newfoundland.
Other Names: Black gooseberry, swamp currant