These plants ship November through May from Pense Berry Farms in Mountainburg, Arkansas. Orders placed between May 21 and October 31 ship in November and December. Online orders of products from Pense Berry Farms require a $150.00 minimum. For smaller orders, please contact us.
Tixia Gooseberry (Ribes uva-crispa 'Tixia')
Key Characteristics
Origin: 'Tixia' (also known as 'Rafzicta') is a relatively recent introduction, a European gooseberry (Ribes uva-crispa) cultivar developed in **Switzerland** by Peter Hauenstein of Rafz. The original cross was made in 1990 with 'Invicta' as the female parent.
Patent Status: 'Tixia' Gooseberry was protected by **Canadian Plant Breeders Rights Certification #3348** (Variety – Rafzicta) until it was surrendered 2011-09-19. The patent status in other regions would need to be verified independently.
Berry Production: Produces large to very large, elongated, smooth, bright red berries. It is known for its high yields. The fruit has a succulent 'sweet-tart' flavor, making it delicious fresh and suitable for pies, jams, and jellies.
Ripening Time: Ripens in the **mid to late season**, typically in July.
Plant Size and Appearance: 'Tixia' is a vigorous and productive plant with an upright growth habit. A significant advantage of 'Tixia' is that its upper (one-year-old) shoots are **virtually thornless**, with only a few, relatively soft thorns on the new growth, making picking much easier.
Flowers: Produces white blossoms in the spring.
Hardiness: Recommended for USDA Zones **3 through 7** (some sources mention Zone 8 as well).
Pollination: Gooseberries are generally self-pollinating, and 'Tixia' is considered self-fertile. However, planting multiple gooseberry bushes may still enhance fruit set and yield.
Growing Conditions:
Sunlight: Prefers full sun for the best fruit production, but can tolerate partial shade. Avoid southern exposures and slopes in hot climates as intense sun may injure the plants.
Soil: Thrives in well-drained soil that is rich in organic matter. Prefers a soil pH between 6.0 and 6.8.
Watering: Requires consistent moisture, especially during fruit development.
Fertilizing: Apply a balanced fertilizer in early spring.
Pruning: Prune in late winter or early spring to remove dead, damaged, or crossing branches and to encourage new growth, as gooseberries fruit best on 1-3 year old wood. Open up the center of the bush for good air circulation.
Uses: The berries are excellent for:
Fresh eating due to their good size and flavor.
Making pies, jams, jellies, and other preserves.
Freezing.
Wildlife Value: The flowers attract pollinators, and the berries are a food source for birds and other wildlife.
Ornamental Value: The upright growth habit and bright red berries can add visual appeal to the garden.
Disease and Pest Resistance: 'Tixia' is reported to have good resistance to **mildew**, a common issue with gooseberries.
