The Vancouver Island Black Swamp Gooseberry (Ribes Divaricatum) is in my humble opinion, is a very tasty treat indeed. It has such a tart flavor. Far better than other Gooseberries and Currents. Good on the side of the trail or use in a variety of recipes. Add to oats before a big hike, it will give you a boost of energy.
The Black Swamp Gooseberry is a member of the Ribes family, you can find it growing on Vancouver Island. It grows from sea level right up into the subalpine areas. It is a hardy plant that can grow in most habitats, it prefers wet ground. Look for it along trails and streams, it can also be found on rocky outcrops and swamps. Gooseberries can be distinguished from Currants because they have prickles and spines on their stems.
This berry makes a wicked jam, personally, I really enjoy the berries raw. Some people will find the berries to be bitter. I have found that some bushes have bitter berries and some others have awesome berries. Don’t base your opinion of these berries on one taste, try them from different bushes.
How do I get gooseberry jam from you? I’m in Bowser BC. Gooseberry jam is scarce as hens teeth other than some second rate box store product, used to have Malkins product but ???
Just require it for filling for Christmas cookies from 150 year old family recipe.
anyone out there have some gooseberry jam for Ken