Quick answer: Appalachian gooseberry (Ribes rotundifolium) is native to 11 states. What's commonly sold under this name is the true wild species. No live listing of the true species was found as of 16 Sep 2026.
Photo: Leaves Collected and scanned by Tyler Young, June 2007., Wikimedia Commons (PD)
Where it's native
Listed in the directory as native to these states. Click a state for its full native-plant guide.
Growing conditions
From the Lady Bird Johnson Wildflower Center Native Plant Database.
| Sun | Part Shade |
|---|---|
| Water | Dry |
| Soil | Rich, rocky |
| Bloom | Apr-May |
| Height | Up to 5 ft |
| Wildlife value | Berries favored by birds, special value to native bees |
Buying it
No live listing of the true wild species was found as of 16 Sep 2026 — that means our last search didn't surface one, not that the plant is unavailable.
No live seed or plant listing found as of 16 Sep 2026. That means our last search didn't surface one — not that the plant is unavailable. Try a regional native-plant nursery.
Quick answers about Appalachian gooseberry
Where is Appalachian gooseberry native?
Appalachian gooseberry (Ribes rotundifolium) is native to 11 states across the Northeast, Midwest and South. Check your state's page in this directory for the full list of plants native where you live.
When does Appalachian gooseberry bloom?
Appalachian gooseberry blooms Apr-May. Exact timing shifts a few weeks with latitude and elevation.
What growing conditions does Appalachian gooseberry need?
Light: Part Shade. Water: Dry. Soil: Rich, rocky. Mature height: Up to 5 ft.
Is Appalachian gooseberry good for pollinators and wildlife?
Yes. Wildlife value: Berries favored by birds, special value to native bees.
Is Appalachian gooseberry deer-resistant or drought-tolerant?
Appalachian gooseberry is drought-tolerant and tolerates shade.
Where can I buy Appalachian gooseberry?
We haven't found an online listing of the true wild species as of 16 Sep 2026. A regional native-plant nursery or native seed company is your best source; ask for Ribes rotundifolium by its scientific name.
Similar native plants
Native plants that share growing conditions or range with Appalachian gooseberry.
- Threadleaf coreopsis Coreopsis verticillata
- Steeplebush Spiraea tomentosa
- Hairy beardtongue Penstemon hirsutus
- Fire pink Silene virginica
- Climbing prairie rose Rosa setigera
- Southern arrowwood Viburnum dentatum
Also listed under
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