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 |