Botanical profile

Ribes uva-crispa 'Little Ben'

Latin name
Ribes uva-crispa 'Little Ben'
Common name
Gooseberry bush 'Little Ben'
Type
Fruit shrub
Family
Grossulariaceae

Ribes uva-crispa ‘Little Ben’ is a compact gooseberry bush, ideal for small gardens and container growing. This dense, bushy fruit shrub develops slightly thorny branches bearing an abundance of light green fruits when ripe. These medium-sized berries are firm, juicy, and pleasantly tart, perfect for jams, pies, and fresh consumption lightly sweetened. Its discreet spring flowering attracts pollinators and encourages a generous summer harvest despite its small size. Its bright green foliage adds texture and volume to edible landscapes. Ribes uva-crispa ‘Little Ben’ combines hardiness, productivity, and limited footprint, offering a practical and decorative solution for northern gardens.

Care guide

Growing conditions

Light, soil, water and hardiness

Hardiness zone
Zone 4
Exposure
Sun
Watering
Regular, fresh, well-drained soil
Fertilization
Compost in spring
Soil type
Rich, well-drained
Minimum temperature
-35°C
Plant appearance

Blooming, foliage and shape

Blooming period
Spring
Flower color
Purple
Fruiting
Light green fruits, medium-sized, firm, juicy, and tart
Foliage color
Green
Foliage type
Obsolete
Shape
Compact bushy
Garden structure

Size and growth

Height
3 ft (1 m)
Width
3 ft (1 m)
Growth rate
Moderate
Vegetable garden and yield

Companion planting, spacing and harvest

Fruit tree type
Gooseberry
Pet friendly
Safe for pets

Pets

Pollinators
Attracts or supports pollinating insects

Pollinators

Butterflies
Plants that attract butterflies

Butterflies

The availability of our plants varies depending on arrivals, seasons, nursery production and supplier availability. Some varieties may be offered for a limited time only, depending on their natural cycle or current stock. These plant profiles are designed to guide and inspire you when choosing plants for the garden, landscaping projects, containers or long-lasting outdoor arrangements.