Jostaberry, 'Josta' (Ribes × nidigrolaria)

A gooseberry and currant cross (without thorns). The rich berry taste is reminiscent of gooseberry with a kiss of black currant. Deep-red, almost-black fruit is high in vitamin C and forms in large clusters, ideal for juices, jams and jellies, and fresh-eating. Plants are much taller than other Ribes (up to 8'), long-lived, thornless, and productive once established. Debuted in 1977. Disease-resistant to American gooseberry mildew, black currant leaf spot, white pine blister rust, and big bud gall mite. Ripens in July. Self-pollinating.