Latin Name: Lycium barbarum
Common Name(s): Gojiberry, Wolfberry
Life Cycle: Perennial
Placement: Garden or Containers
Hardiness Zones: 5 - 9
Uses: Berries: Fresh or dried; In some cultures leaves and shoots cooked
Description: There are two species of Gojiberries. This species is primarily
grown in northern areas. Gojiberry plants start producing fruit in year two
or three when grown from seed. Be careful with these seedlings. They may not
be hardy in the second year and may require winter protection. When propagated
from cuttings the plants tend to be hardy and will produce fruit earlier than
from seed. The plants can become large shrubs up to 10 feet tall and 8 feet
wide. They prefer acid well drained soil. Ideal pH is 5.0. The fruit is small
and red and mildly sweet with a slight tangy taste. The fruit can be harvested
in the fall. Flowers tend to be purplish colored and somewhat attractrive to
bees but not the bee's first choice.
Planting Tips: Sow indoors in winter. May need cold stratification for
up to 30 days for optimal germination.
Availability: Year Round
