jahns prairie Gooseberry (Live plants) Perennial Vine Caribbeangardenseed

This variety of gooseberry, Jahn’s Prairie, is highly resistant to disease and yields dark red dessert fruit. It was carefully chosen by expert Dr. Otto Jahn from the native species found in Alberta, Canada. The fruit starts out green and turns a vibrant red-pink when ripe. Its fresh quality rivals that of European gooseberries.

Bearing an upright growth habit and sprawling branches, Jahn’s Prairie gooseberry is a perennial vine that reaches a height of 5 feet. Its leaf shape bears resemblance to that of European Hawthorne, and it is resistant to powdery mildew, leaf spot, and Botrytis on its fruit. There have been no observed cases of White Pine Blister Rust on this plant, and it has not shown any insect damage from aphids or saw-flies. It is recommended to space these plants in 5-foot circles in zones 3-7.

Prefers sun to part shade in hotter summer climates. Evenly moist soils with optimal ph of 5.8-6.8 and amended with organic matter regularly will produce vigorous plants with best yields. Plants reach mature bearing age by years 4-5, but begin fruiting as early as year 2, and will remain productive for 15-20 years or more. Space at 4′-5′ for optimal airflow.

Gooseberries, highly prized in Europe as an important part of a well-rounded garden, have been sadly neglected in America, perhaps because people remember gooseberries as tart and mouth puckering – but sweet varieties are wonderful for fresh eating! Gooseberries generally ripen in early summer, just after strawberries. We offer well-rooted, one-year bushes. Hardy to USDA Zone 3.