Sierra Gooseberry (Ribes roezlii)
Family: Gooseberry (Grossulariaceae)
Habitat: Sierra Gooseberry is one of the early bloomers heralding spring in the foothills, but I've also seen it growing at elevations up to 7,000 feet along Glacier Point Road.
Size: The flowers are small, resembling miniature Christmas tree lights in size and shape, and you'll need to get down on the ground and examine them up close, possibly with a magnifying glass, to be properly impressed. The plants are easy to spot, though; the flowers grow on shrubs that can spread four or five feet in diameter and grow equally tall.
While you've got your magnifying glass out, check the lower leaves for glandular hairs. If they're present you're actually in the presence of the less common Bitter Gooseberry (Ribes amarum).
Flowering Season: February - June.
This Photo: Near the Fresno River north of Oakhurst, late February. Elevation about 2,300 feet (700 meters).
More Gooseberries
 The Fruit |
 Sierra Gooseberry |