I was surprised how well mine ripened off the vine. Even firm they still tasted good. Is that the first year of fruit, or have you had the plant a while. I've had very little fruit the second and third years, and I presume it's because of the lack of pollinators, despite it (apparently) being a self fertile plant. Phil

I'm thinking of buying one called 'Jenny' a self fertile variety. I am however concerned about whether they ripen enough before winter.

Thankyou for replies, this is the first year plant (Cape Gooseberry) I have had three plants so lots of fruit. If we had a sunnier September they perhaps would all have ripened. Did not realise could keep the plants from year to year. Nina