Ribes x nidigrolaria

Jostaberry (Ribes x nidigrolaria) is a cross between black currants (Ribes nigrum), black gooseberries (Ribes divaracitum), and European gooseberries (Ribes uva-crispa). A thornless, vigorous shrub it reaches up to 6 ft (2 m) tall, and produces dark, succulent fruit the size of a gooseberry. Masses of purple-white flowers bloom in May, and are pollinated by bees. Although this hybrid is self-fertile and another Jostaberry is not needed for pollination, one in proximity will increase both fruit production and flavour.

Jostaberry will start producing fruits after a couple of years and reach its full yield at 4 to 5 years old. Top dress with compost every spring for optimum yields. Jostaberries taste like gooseberry at first and then transition to a black currant flavour. More they ripen more they taste like black currants. The black berries can be harvested in mid-July. Great for fresh eating, cooking, and baking.

The plants are quite tolerant of shade, even succeeding on a north-facing wall, although they do not fruit as well. While sun loving, Jostaberry fruit best in cooler climates. Ribes x nidigrolaria is attractive to bees, butterflies, and birds.

Resistant to American gooseberry mildew, blackcurrant leaf spot, white pine blister rust, and big bud gall mite.