Goji Berry

Goji Berry Plants For Sale

Lycium barbarum

Herb Growing Tips

Light:  Full Sun

Temperature:  4-9

Watering:  Regular watering until established, then can be as needed

Soil: Well Drained soil 

Comments: It requires full sun, is well-draining, and has a slightly alkaline sandy loam. Tolerant of drought, poor soils, and some light shade. Watch for powdery mildew, blossom end rot, root rot, aphids, Japanese beetles, and goji berry gall mites. Birds and squirrels eat ripe berries.

Herb Description

Check out the amazing Lycium barbarum, goji berry or wolfberry! This deciduous woody shrub is native to Asia and is known for its nutrient-rich, bright orange-red berries. The berries are not only edible but also packed with antioxidants like vitamin C and carotenoids. They have a slightly tart, tomato-like flavor when fresh and are commonly dried and used in herbal teas, juices, supplements, and traditional Chinese medicine.

This versatile plant is highly drought and heat-tolerant, perfect for hot, arid climates where few other fruit crops can be grown. Its arching form and ornamental value make it an excellent addition to any landscape. The plant is self-fertile and can be grown in full sun with well-drained soils. Fruiting occurs from late summer through fall in most regions.

Lycium barbarum has a fascinating history, cultivated for centuries in China and now widely grown commercially for its nutritious berries. It's also interesting to note that the genus name comes from the Greek lykion, a thorny tree from Lycia, and the specific epithet barbarum means "foreign," possibly applied to differentiate this species from others.

The common names for this incredible plant, such as matrimony vine, Chinese wolfberry, and goji berry, also have interesting origins. The name wolfberry may have originated from a misinterpretation of the genus name as being from the Greek lycos, meaning "wolf," and the name goji berry roughly matches the Chinese name for the fruit, gouqi. So, if you're looking for a unique and beneficial addition to your garden, look no further than the fascinating Lycium barbarum!