Box-thorns (Lycium) - PictureThis

Box-thorns

Also known as: Desert-Thorn, Desert-thorns, Wolfthorns

The box-thorns is a genus of flowering shrubs that can be found in flats, arroyos, and washes. Cattle, deer, and birds all graze on this plant. Its fruits, goji berries, are an important food crop in Asia. Goji berries can be consumed in tea, juice, wine, and even soups. The box-thorns was also used by Ancient Roman herbalists.

Scientific classification

Genus

Box-thorns (Lycium)

Family

Nightshade

Order

Nightshades, bindweeds, gooseweeds, and allies

Instantly identify plants with a snap

Snap a photo for instant plant ID, gaining quick insights on disease prevention, treatment, toxicity, care, uses, and symbolism, etc.

Download the App for Free

Perennial

Lifespan

Deciduous

Leaf type

Images of Box-thorns

Species

Chinese wolfberry Chinese Boxthorn African boxthorn Water jacket Carolina desert-thorn Bastard jasmine Lycium chilense Wolf honeythorn Parish's desert-thorn Baja desert-thorn Fremont's desert-thorn Mouse honeythorn Carolina desert-thorn Pale desert-thorn Berlandier's wolfberry Buck honeythorn Schweinfurth's tea-tree

Quickly Identify Box-thorns

Funnel-shaped flowers, 0.4 inches (1 cm) in diameter, range from white to purple.

Small, oval berries, 0.3–0.6 inches (8–15 mm), with glossy red to purple skin.

Woody stems with sharp spines provide a defense mechanism against grazing.

Small, fleshy leaves, 0.5 to 1.5 inches (1.2 to 3.8 cm), smooth texture.

Adaptable to arid environments, reaching 2-6 feet (0.6-1.8 meters) in height.

Identify plants with a snap

Instantly identify plants with AI: Snap a photo, and get accurate results within seconds.

Download the App for Free

Care Guide for Box-thorns

Every 2 weeks

Water

Water: Box-thorns thrives in semi-arid conditions with infrequent rainfall. It prefers drier soils and has moderate drought tolerance, requiring watering every two weeks. Ideally grown outdoors, box-thorns benefits from well-draining soil to prevent waterlogging and imitate its natural habitat.

Propagation: Propagation of box-thorns involves seeds, cuttings, and layering. Key requirements include full sun, well-drained soil, and temperate climates. Seeds need stratification (2-4 weeks) and cuttings may require rooting hormone. Water sparingly to avoid overwatering and manage pests effectively.

Get tips and tricks for your plants.

Keep your plants happy and healthy with our guide to watering, lighting, feeding and more.

Download the App for Free

Learn More About Box-thorns

How to Grow and Care

Plant disease auto-diagnose & prevention

AI-powered plant doctor helps you diagnose plant problems in seconds.

Download the App for Free