Ribes thatcherianum - Santa Cruz Island Gooseberry

Description

The Santa Cruz Island or Canyon Gooseberry is a rare shrub found in ravines at elevations of less than 1000'. It grows to about 10'. The leaves are deep green, while the flowers are a combination of white, pink and maroon, and resemble a miniature Fuschia. They bloom from March to April and attract hummingbirds. Spiny red fruits follow in summer, feeding a variety of other birds. Give it part to full shade or sun on the coast and water occasionally or not at all once established.