Goji Berry
lycium barbarum
Also known as: ["Goji","Wolfberry","Duke of Argyll's Tea Tree"]
Overview
A deciduous shrub native to Asia, known for its bright orange-red berries used in traditional medicine and as a superfood.
Benefits & Perks
["edible fruits","medicinal use","culinary herb","wildlife attractant (bees, butterflies, birds)","drought tolerant"]
Botanical Classification
| Phylum: | Magnoliophyta |
| Class: | Magnoliopsida |
| Order: | Solanales |
| Family: | Solanaceae |
| Genus: | Lycium |
| Botanical Name: | Lycium barbarum |
Plant Characteristics
Basic Information
- Category: Fruits
- Suitable Location: outdoor garden bed in full sun, or large container in a sunny location
- Suitable For:
- Is Weed: No
- Allergenicity: low
Environmental Needs
- Climate: {"temperatureRange":"–34–38°C"}
- Hardiness: {"zones":"3–9"}
- Misting: rarely required, only if grown in very dry indoor conditions
- Drainage: Fast-draining to prevent root rot.
- Soil Type: Well-draining, loamy soil with added organic matter; can tolerate poorer soils but benefits from enrichment.
Maintenance Level
- Maintenance Level: moderate
- Toughness Level: high
- Pruning Frequency: Annually in late winter or early spring; light pruning can be done after fruiting if needed.
- Pruning Intensity: Moderate to heavy; remove up to one-third of old wood to stimulate new growth and fruiting.
Care Details
Ideal Sunlight Coverage:
Full sun (6–8 hours/day); tolerates partial shade but may produce fewer fruits.
Sunlight Tolerance Tips:
Acclimate plants gradually to intense sunlight; protect from harsh afternoon sun in hot climates; ensure adequate light indoors if grown as a container plant.
Care Requirements
Care Difficulty
moderatemoderate
Sunlight
full sun
Rotate plant for even light exposure; use sheer curtains to filter intense sun; supplement with grow lights if indoors.
Watering
every 7–10 days during active growth, less frequently in winter
Water thoroughly but infrequently; ensure soil dries between waterings; avoid overwatering, especially in winter.
Soil
well-drained, loamy soil with moderate fertility
pH: Slightly acidic to neutral (pH 6.0–7.0).
Ensure good drainage; amend with organic matter; avoid compacted soil.
Temperature
Prefers 60–75°F (15–24°C); tolerates cooler temperatures but may become dormant below 50°F (10°C); heat-tolerant but benefits from shade in extreme heat.
Avoid sudden temperature fluctuations; protect from frost; ensure good air circulation in hot weather.
Fertilizing
every 4–6 weeks during spring and summer with balanced liquid fertilizer
Avoid over-fertilizing to prevent root burn; fertilize after watering to prevent salt buildup; use organic options like compost or worm castings.
Propagation
Methods
Softwood stem cuttings; seed (less common for home growers).
Step-by-Step Propagation Guide
- Take 4–6 inch cuttings.
- Remove lower leaves.
- Dip in rooting hormone.
- Plant in medium.
- Maintain humidity.
- Transplant once rooted.
Best Time: Late spring to early summer when new growth is firm but not woody.
Environment
High humidity (70–90%); warm temperatures (65–75°F or 18–24°C); bright, indirect light.
Medium
Well-draining mix of peat, perlite, and sand; can also use pure sand or vermiculite for rooting.
Hormone
Recommended to use rooting hormone for faster and more reliable rooting.
Timeline
Roots may appear in 3–4 weeks; establish in new pot within 2–3 months.
Tools Needed
Pruning shears, rooting hormone, small pots, misting spray bottle, plastic bags or propagation dome.
Quick Tips
Use clean tools to prevent disease; maintain consistent moisture; provide bottom heat if possible for faster rooting.
Pruning & Repotting
Pruning Guide
Method
Thinning cuts to remove entire branches back to the trunk; heading cuts to shorten branches and encourage bushiness.
Pruning Plan
Prune to shape the plant, encourage fruiting wood, and remove dead or diseased branches; focus on young plants to establish a strong framework.
Tools
Pruning shears, loppers, saw (for larger branches), sterilizing solution.
Checklist
Sterilize tools; prune during dormancy; remove dead/diseased wood first; make clean cuts just above buds or branches.
Repotting Guide
Best Season
Early spring before new growth begins; avoid repotting during flowering or fruiting.
Pot Size
Move to a pot one size larger (2–3 inches wider in diameter); ensure the new pot is not excessively large.
Method
Remove plant gently; trim any circling roots; replace old soil with fresh, well-draining mix; ensure pot has drainage holes.
Suggestions
Repot every 2–3 years or when roots fill the container; container-grown plants may need repotting annually to replenish soil.
Checklist
Check root bound status; prepare new pot with drainage; use fresh soil mix; water after repotting; place in shade for a few days.
Advanced Care Tips
Watering Mastery
Watering Checklist
Check soil moisture; water deeply; ensure drainage; adjust for season.
How to Apply Water Properly
Water at the base of the plant, ensuring moisture reaches the root zone; water until it drains from the bottom; avoid wetting foliage to prevent fungal issues.
Watering Schedule Tips
Water deeply once the top inch of soil is dry; reduce frequency in winter to prevent root rot.
Soil Improvement
Add compost or well-rotted manure for fertility; incorporate perlite or sand for drainage; use mulch to retain moisture and suppress weeds.
Temperature Stress Management
Signs of Temperature Issues
Chlorosis or leaf drop in excessive heat; stunted growth or bud drop in cold stress.
Cold Stress
Slows growth; may cause leaf drop or dormancy; roots can suffer damage in freezing temperatures.
Solution: Mulch heavily around the base; move container plants indoors or to a sheltered location; protect from frost with row covers.
Hot Stress
Wilting; leaf scorch; reduced fruit production; increased susceptibility to pests.
Solution: Provide afternoon shade; increase watering frequency; use mulch to retain soil moisture; ensure good air circulation.
Fertilizing Guide
Fertilizing Checklist
Check fertilizer type; follow dilution instructions; apply during active growth; avoid winter feeding.
Fertilizing Method
Use balanced, slow-release fertilizer in early spring; apply liquid fertilizer every 4–6 weeks during growing season; reduce or stop in late fall/winter.
Common Problems & Solutions
Toxicity Warning
Cats
Non-toxicGoji berries are not considered toxic to cats. The plant parts, including the fruits and leaves, are generally safe for feline consumption in small amounts. However, as with any new food, introduction should be gradual to monitor for any adverse reactions.
🌿 Toxic Parts:
⚡ Toxic If:
if eaten
Dogs
Non-toxicGoji berries are not considered toxic to dogs. The plant parts, including the fruits and leaves, are generally safe for canine consumption in small amounts. However, as with any new food, introduction should be gradual to monitor for any adverse reactions.
🌿 Toxic Parts:
⚡ Toxic If:
if eaten
Humans
Slightly ToxicLycium barbarum, commonly known as Goji berry, is generally considered safe for human consumption. However, unripe fruits and seeds may contain compounds that can cause mild gastrointestinal distress if consumed in large quantities. The ripe fruits are widely consumed for their nutritional benefits and are not typically associated with toxicity.
⚠️ Symptoms:
🌿 Toxic Parts:
⚡ Toxic If:
if eaten in large quantities
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Are goji berries safe for pets?
A: Yes, goji berries are non-toxic to dogs and cats.
Q: How do I grow goji berries?
A: Plant in well-drained soil with full sun exposure; they are drought-tolerant once established.
Q: What are the health benefits of goji berries?
A: They are rich in antioxidants, vitamins, and minerals, often used to boost immunity and eye health.
Quick Reference
| Family: | Solanaceae |
| Care: | moderate |
| Light: | full sun |
| Water: | every 7–10 days during activ |
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