Gooseberry fruit may have fine hairs. Gooseberries are winter hardy, growing in USDA Hardiness zones three to five. Native species are found in northern parts of North America, and will grow at elevations up to 10,000 feet. Consequently, they perform better when they're provided some shade, as they may defoliate if temperatures exceed 86 degrees Fahrenheit for an extended duration. Use mulch to moderate soil temperature fluctuations.
Gooseberries can tolerate warmer temperatures than currants.
Gooseberries do best in fertile, loamy soil that has good drainage. Optimum pH is 6.2 to 6.5, but they tolerate 5.5 to 7.0. At a higher pH, the fruit quantity may be limited, but the plants can still be used for landscaping. Gooseberries do best in cool temperatures with full sun. Gooseberries are an alternate host for the white pine blister rust, so avoid planting them with white pines.