Ribes uva-crispa Pixwell (Gooseberry)

Noted for its high yields, Ribes uva-crispa ‘Pixwell’ is a small, deciduous shrub that is vigorous and almost thornless. It boasts medium to large, tart, pink fruits which ripen in mid-summer. The gooseberries have a sweet flesh and contrasting tart skin. They are excellent for jam and desserts. This plant is self-fertile.

Noted for its high yields, Ribes uva-crispa 'Pixwell' is a small, deciduous shrub that is vigorous and almost thornless. It boasts medium to large, tart, pink fruits which ripen in mid-summer. The gooseberries have a sweet flesh and contrasting tart skin. They are excellent for jam and desserts. This plant is self-fertile.

  • Grows up to 3-4 ft. tall and wide (90-120 cm).
  • A full sun to part shade lover, this plant is easily grown in organically rich, medium moisture, well-drained soils. Prefers full sun but appreciates some shade in hot summer areas. Site in a location protected from strong winter winds and frost pockets.
  • Attracts scores of butterflies and birds but is ignored by rabbits.
  • Keep an eye out for Gooseberry sawfly, capsid bug, birds, squirrels, aphids, leaf spot.
  • Prune gooseberries in winter and summer to maximize fruit production
  • Propagate by hardwood cuttings in winter.

Requirements

Hardiness 4
– 6

Climate Zones 1, 1A, 1B, 2, 2A, 2B, 3, 3A, 3B, 4, 5, 6, 15, 16, 17, A1, A2, A3
Plant Type Fruit, Shrubs
Plant Family Ribes – Currants
Exposure Full Sun, Partial Sun
Season of Interest Summer (Mid)
Height 3'
– 4'
(90cm
– 120cm)
Spread 3'
– 4'
(90cm
– 120cm)
Spacing 36″
– 48″
(90cm
– 120cm)
Water Needs Average
Maintenance Average
Soil Type Chalk, Loam, Sand
Soil pH Acid, Alkaline, Neutral
Soil Drainage Moist but Well-Drained
Characteristics Fruit & Berries
Tolerance Rabbit
Attracts Birds, Butterflies
Garden Styles Informal and Cottage