Whinham's Industry is a well-known heritage red dessert gooseberry raised in England in the mid-19th century and long valued for its reliability and tolerance of a wide range of conditions. It produces medium to large dark-red, hairy berries with a sweet, rich flavor when fully ripe, good both for dessert and for cooking and preserving. Unusually among gooseberries, it tolerates heavier soils and partial shade better than most, making it a versatile choice for less-than-ideal permaculture sites. The bush is vigorous and spreading with a somewhat lax habit. While it can be prone to mildew, its adaptability and dependable cropping have kept it popular for well over a century as a robust, traditional garden gooseberry.
Flavor Profile
Sweet and rich when fully ripe, with good flavor for both dessert and cooking.
Visual Characteristics
Medium to large dark-red, hairy berries on a vigorous, spreading, somewhat lax bush.
Growing Tips
Tolerates heavier soils and partial shade better than most gooseberries. Prune the lax growth to keep it manageable.
Resistance Information
Disease Resistance
Can be prone to American gooseberry mildew.
Where to Buy
Sourcing information coming soon. Check local nurseries and seed banks for availability.