Arching branches. Riley Wilderness Park, Coto de Caza, Orange Co., CA. 3-08-08. © Joan Avise

Fuchsia-flowered Gooseberry

Ribes speciosum

A a common 3-6' shrub with long arching branches in shady habitats growing in canyons near the coast, from Newport Back Bay to the Santa Ana Mountains.  Flowers can appear as early as January, providing food to Anna's hummingbirds during their nesting period in winter.

Grossulareaceae

Back to Grossulareaceae of Orange County, California
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Fullerton Arboretum, Fullerton, CA. 3-31-06. © Joan Avise

Glandular floral tube formed by sepals; petals inside; 4 exserted stamens Fullerton Arboretum, Fullerton, CA. 1-12-08. © Joan Avise

Berries and stems are bristly with 3 spines at each node. San Joaquin Wildlife Sanctuary, Irvine, CA. 4-11-09. © Joan Avise

Dried flower remains attached to the fruit. San Joaquin Wildlife Sanctuary, Irvine, CA. 4-11-09. © Joan Avise