Native & adapted

Star gooseberry

Phyllanthus acidus

Also known as Otaheite gooseberry · Tahitian gooseberry · Malay gooseberry · Grosella

A small tropical tree that bears dense clusters of ribbed, pale yellow fruit along its branches. Sour and refreshing, and best grown in a large pot in Phoenix.

EdibleFruitingContainer friendlyFrost tender

Landscape layersLower canopy

Mature size6–15 ft tall and 6–10 ft wide

Climate fitUrban core · USDA 9b–10a

Plant spacing8 ft from other trees

FrostDamaged near 32°F; protect below 40°F.

Special categoriesEDIBLE

Hardiness guidanceUSDA 10b–11; protect below about 40°F

Winter chillNone

Typical harvestFruits in flushes through the warm season.

Before you plant

These conditions determine whether it will thrive.

Soil chemistry

Fertile, fast-draining soil rich in compost.

Required microclimatePlacement is part of the growing system.

Large container that can move under cover on cold nights.

Right plant, right place

Will Star gooseberry grow at your Arizona property?

Rare in Arizona. Treat as a patio container plant.

Best regional fit: Urban core · USDA 9b–10a.

Light

Sun exposure

Afternoon shade or filtered sun all day.

Water

Irrigation

Moderate and steady.

Fruit set

Pollination

Self-fertile.

Harvest

How to use it

Very sour; eaten with salt, pickled, or cooked into jam and syrup.

Planting & stewardship

How to help Star gooseberry thrive

1
Shade from afternoon sun.
2
Move under cover when nights drop below 40°F.
3
Feed lightly every 6 to 8 weeks in the warm season.
4
Keep soil evenly moist.

Read the horticultural reference ↗