Sierra Wild Flowers - Lake Tahoe
  wildflower photo    Scientific Name: Ribes roezlii
   Common Name: Sierra Gooseberry
   Family: Gooseberry
   Color: Wine Red

 

Description: It is the sepals that are deep red and reflexed. The petals are tiny, white to pink, and curve inward, lengthwise around five exserted red stamens. The stems have long, stiff thorns. The fruits are large, plump, and covered with spikes.

Habitat: Dry forest or shady slopes.

Edibility/Toxicity: If one can get past the spiny exterior, the berries are sweet and palatable fresh, boiled or dried.

Comments: This unique-looking flower and berry inspires a closer look, but be careful, as the thorns are extremely sharp.

wildflower photo

wildflower photo

wildflower photo