Missouri Gooseberry lacks most qualities that would entice a person to plant it in a formal flower bed setting; it is thorny, has lackluster flowers, and has an open, sprawling habit that would seem intrusive. However, it would fit in very nicely at the backyard border or in other sites where aesthetics take a back seat.
This is a great plant for wildlife. A number of bees will visit the springtime flowers. It provides cover and food for small mammals and birds. People often pick the berries while they are still green and tart for cooking (ripe berries are brownish purple). Despite the thorns, deer will browse on gooseberry but don't seriously damage the plant.
Uses: Edible, tea, wildlife, bees, birds, hummingbirds
Bloom time: April - May
Height: 2 to 4 feet
Space: 3 to 6 feet
Sun: Sun to shade (fewer berries are produced in heavy shade)
Moisture: Average
