Chinese wolfberry - Lycium barbarum (Care, Characteristics, Symbolism, Images)

Chinese wolfberry

Also known as: Mede berry, Chinese boxthorn, Duke of argyll's tea plant, Goji berry, Tibetan goji

Chinese wolfberry (Lycium barbarum) is one of two plants from which goji berries are harvested. While the tart berries are edible, the leaves can be toxic in large quantities. It grows as a weedy, sprawling vine with lavender flowers.

Scientific classification

Species

Chinese wolfberry (Lycium barbarum)

Nightshades, bindweeds, gooseweeds, and allies

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Shrub, Vine

Plant Type

Late spring, Summer

Bloom Time

Late summer, Fall

Harvest Time

3 m

Plant Height

4 m

Spread

Green, Gray

Leaf Color

2.5 cm

Flower Size

Red, Orange

Fruit Color

Purple

Flower Color

Green, Purple

Stem Color

Winter dormancy

Dormancy

Images of Chinese wolfberry

Distribution of Chinese wolfberry

Distribution Map

Chinese wolfberry is a plant with its origins in the temperate and subtropical regions of Asia and Southeast Europe. Today, it can be found naturalized in many parts of the world. Its range extends to various continents including Europe, Asia, and Oceania, as well as to the Americas. Chinese wolfberry has been introduced and cultivated in numerous regions, signifying a broad naturalized distribution beyond its native habitat.

Native

Cultivated

Invasive

Introduced

No species reported

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Habitat

Hedges, walls, waste ground

Hemisphere Trend Curve

Northern

Sorthern

Flowering

Fruiting

Culture

Symbolism

Intoxicating,

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Toxicity

Chinese wolfberry is largely inedible, but its berries can cause serious health issues, particularly for people on medications and those with allergies. Ingestion of chinese wolfberry plant parts can be toxic to both cats and dogs, causing symptoms like vomiting, diarrhea, and lethargy. Immediate veterinary attention is vital if pets show signs of poisoning. Chinese wolfberry can also absorb heavy metals and pesticides from the soil, compounding toxicity risks.

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Care Guide for Chinese wolfberry

Every 2 weeks

Water

Full sun

Sunlight

10 - 35 ℃

Ideal Temperature

Garden Soil

Soil Type

Water: Chinese wolfberry is a drought-tolerant plant from semi-arid regions, thriving with infrequent rainfall. It prefers dry conditions, needing watering every two weeks. Ideal for outdoor settings, chinese wolfberry is suitable for xeriscaping, providing greenery while conserving water.

Fertilize: For chinese wolfberry, use a balanced fertilizer (10-10-10) every 4-6 weeks during the growing season. High nitrogen fertilizers support early growth; switch before flowering. Water the soil pre- and post-application to prevent root burn. Reduce application in winter to avoid over-fertilization damage.

Pruning: Chinese wolfberry produces nutrient-rich berries and benefits from annual pruning in early to late winter while dormant. Remove dead, damaged, or overcrowded branches to enhance air circulation, promote healthy growth, and improve fruit production. Pruning also helps manage the plant's size and shape for aesthetic appeal.

Propagation: Propagation of chinese wolfberry is optimal in autumn and winter using cutting and layering techniques. It is relatively easy, with successful signs including new leaf growth. Adequate care and preparation of the cutting or layering enhance the likelihood of success.

Repotting: Chinese wolfberry requires repotting every 2-3 years, ideally in early spring, to support its vigorous growth. Use deep containers for root expansion and maintain consistent watering with partial shade post-repotting for optimal recovery and success.

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Images of Chinese wolfberry

Distribution of Chinese wolfberry

Culture

Toxicity

Care Guide for Chinese wolfberry

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