Nannyberry vs Sebastien Gooseberry - TreeTime.ca

Nannyberry vs Sebastien Gooseberry

Ribes uva-crispa Sebastien

Viburnum lentago

NOT AVAILABLE THIS SEASON

(new stock expected: fall of 2025)

NOT AVAILABLE THIS SEASON

Sebastien Gooseberry
Nannyberry

Sebastien Gooseberry is a nearly thornless variety that produces medium-sized, red gooseberries. When the berries are fully ripe they are quite sweet and great for fresh eating. They can be stored for up to two weeks in the fridge. For baking and preserves, they are often picked when under-ripe when they are firm and tart. The general harvest period is anywhere from July to September.

Sebastien Gooseberry is a Canadian variety that was developed at the Agriculture and Agri-Food Canada research station in Ottawa.

Gooseberries are self-pollinating but planting with another variety will increase yields.

Nannyberry is a hardy shrub known for attracting wildlife. Its clusters of white flowers and tasty berries are suitable for bees, birds, and other animals.

Nannyberry is also used in urban yards and landscaping. This shrub makes a beautiful ornamental and is small enough to grow underneath power lines. Its berries can be eaten fresh or used in baking and preserves.

Makes a great hedge or privacy screen in an urban yard. Often has great red fall color to complement its spring flowers.

Note: This species is currently unavailable. Grow your own using Nannyberry seeds at SeedTime.ca.

Sebastien Gooseberry Quick Facts

Nannyberry Quick Facts

Zone: 3a
Zone: 2b
Height: 1.5 m (5 ft)
Height: 5 m (15 ft)
Spread: 1.5 m (5 ft)
Spread: 3 m (10 ft)
Moisture: normal
Moisture: any
Light: partial shade, full sun
Light: partial shade, full sun
Hybrid: no
Hybrid: no
Catkins: no
Catkins: no
Berries: reddish and medium sized
Berries: red to purple
Harvest: late July to September
Flowers: white
Bark: gray and scaly
Growth rate: fast
Growth rate: medium
Life span: short
Life span: short
Suckering: low
Suckering: medium



Toxicity: leaves are toxic to humans

Other Names: sheepberry, sweet viburnum