Goji Berry
Lycium barbarum
Plant Images
OneSeed Image
Description
Goji Berry, or Lycium barbarum, is a deciduous shrub renowned for its bright red berries, highly valued in traditional Chinese medicine and as a superfood. Native to Asia, particularly China, it has been cultivated for centuries for its nutritional and medicinal properties. In the context of agroecology, Goji Berry serves as a shrub layer in food forests, providing habitat and food for wildlife. It is appreciated for its adaptability to various soil types and its ability to thrive in diverse climates, making it a resilient addition to regenerative agricultural systems. The plant typically grows to a height of 1 to 3 meters and is known for its thorny branches and small, purple flowers that bloom in summer. Goji berries are rich in antioxidants, vitamins, and minerals, making them a nutritious food source. They can be eaten fresh, dried, or used in teas and juices. In agroecology, Goji Berry can serve as a living hedge or windbreak, and its flowers attract pollinators, enhancing biodiversity. Historically, it has been used in traditional Chinese medicine to support vision, immune function, and longevity.
Growing Details
Goji berries prefer well-drained, slightly alkaline soil with a pH of 6.8 to 8.1. Before planting, enrich the soil with well-rotted compost or aged manure to improve fertility. Mulching with organic materials such as straw or wood chips helps retain soil moisture and suppress weeds. Planting alongside companion plants like basil or flowers like marigolds can help naturally deter pests. Avoid overwatering, as goji berries are drought-tolerant once established. Harvest berries when they are fully
Tags
Hedge
Carbon Farming
Attracts Wildlife
Windbreak
Erosion Preventing
Bee Friendly
Visual Appeal
Easy Propagating
Colouring
Tea
Range (Based on GBIF Data)
The map shows known occurrence points of <strong>Lycium barbarum</strong> recorded in scientific biodiversity databases.
Source: <a href="https://www.gbif.org" target="_blank">GBIF.org</a> โ Global Biodiversity Information Facility
Location & Timing
native geo location: Native to Asia, particularly China
applicable geo region: Asia
language used: sr
Flowering:
beginning
of May for 60 days
Harvest:
beginning
of August for 45 days
Seed Start:
beginning
of March
Indoor Start:
beginning
of March
Transplant:
middle
of May
Uses & Benefits
Edible Rating:
(4/5)
edible uses: Goji berries are consumed fresh or dried and are often used in teas, juices, and smoothies. They can be added to cereals, salads, and desserts. Berries are typically harvested from late summer to early autumn when fully ripe and at their highest nutritional content. Rich in vitamin C, fiber, and antioxidants, they should be thoroughly washed before consumption to remove dust or residues.
Medicinal Rating:
(4/5)
medicinal uses: Traditionally used in Chinese medicine, goji berries are believed to support immunity, improve vision, and promote longevity. Rich in antioxidants, they may help reduce inflammation. However, these claims should be taken with caution and should not replace professional medical advice. Berries are often used in herbal teas and tinctures. It is important to note that while generally safe, excessive consumption can cause digestive issues.
health concerns: Excessive consumption can cause digestive issues or interact with certain medications like blood thinners. Consultation with a healthcare professional is recommended before making significant dietary changes.
other uses: Goji berries can be used as a natural dye due to their vibrant color.
Scientific Literature
Loading scientific articles about <strong>Lycium barbarum</strong>...
Botanical data
specie: Lycium barbarum
common names: Goji Berry; Vuฤje bobice; Braฤna loza
family: Solanaceae
sub family:
tribe:
sub tribe:
genus: Lycium
Growing Conditions
area needed: 1.0 m
spacing: 1.5 m
growing difficulty: Low
Deciduous / Evergreen: Evergreen
Seed Temp (Opt/Min/Max): 20ยฐC / 15ยฐC / 25ยฐC
Plant Temp (Opt/Min/Max): 20ยฐC / -10ยฐC / 30ยฐC
water demands: Medium
humidity:
light demands: High
root type: Medium
frost tender: Low
hardness:
โ
โ
โ
โ
โ
โ
โ
โ
โ
โ
(5/10)
first harvest: 2 years
life span: 20 years
succession: Mid
growth rate: Medium
max height: 3.0 m
max width: 1.5 m
soil preference:
Medium (Loam)
pH preference:
Neutral
flower type:
Hermaphrodite
growth details: Goji berries prefer well-drained, slightly alkaline soil with a pH of 6.8 to 8.1. Before planting, enrich the soil with well-rotted compost or aged manure to improve fertility. Mulching with organic materials such as straw or wood chips helps retain soil moisture and suppress weeds. Planting alongside companion plants like basil or flowers like marigolds can help naturally deter pests. Avoid overwatering, as goji berries are drought-tolerant once established. Harvest berries when they are fully
Potential Disturbances: Challenges include pressures from aphids and spider mites. Introduce beneficial insects like ladybugs and lacewings to maintain aphid population balance. For spider mites, maintain humidity and use neem oil as a natural deterrent. Companion plants such as garlic and chives can help manage these pressures. Regular monitoring and organic practices are beneficial.
Permanent Link
Scan this QR code for a permanent link to this plant:
Download QR Code
Loading comments...