Captivator Gooseberry (Ribes uva-crispa ‘Captivator’) is a nearly thornless variety bred for cold tolerance and mildew resistance. It produces sweet-tart, teardrop-shaped fruit that turn from green to rich red in mid to late summer. The berries are perfect for fresh eating, cooking, or preserves, and the plant is self-fertile, meaning just one will produce.
Features
• Ideal prune height: 1.2–1.5 m
• pH range: 6.0–6.5
• Sun preference: Full sun to part shade
• Minimum pot size year 5: 40 L
• Time to fruit: 2 years from planting
• Harvest period: Mid to late summer
• Notable traits: Thornless, mildew resistant, cold hardy
Captivator Gooseberry thrives in fertile, well-drained soil and benefits from regular watering in dry periods. Mulch well to retain soil moisture and reduce weeds. Prune in winter to maintain shape and promote strong fruiting wood.
A great choice for home gardeners wanting easy harvests without the hassle of thorns, plus fruit that’s versatile in the kitchen and highly ornamental on the bush.
Keywords: Captivator Gooseberry, Ribes uva-crispa, thornless gooseberry, Perth fruit bushes, cold hardy fruit, mildew resistant gooseberry, homegrown berries