Lycium spp
There are 10 species of Wolfberry in AZ; all are spiny, nectar rich and generally grow as a sprawling shrub. Flowers are usually small, and pale-pink to lavender in color. Flowering is sporadic throughout the year, often in response to rains. Fruits are orange to red and edible, tasting like a tart, salty tomato.
Flowers: J F M A M J J A S O N D
Status: Native
Origin: Varies
Family: Solanaceae, Nightshade or Potato Family
Size: Varies
Sun: Full to light shade
Watering: Supplemental only
Growth Rate: Moderate
Soil: Tolerant
Temperature: Hardy into the low 20s F.
Pruning: None
Disease and Pests:
Uses: Host for the Mexican Agapema Silkmoth, Sphinx moth, Prominent moth and Crambid moth. Excellent nectar source. Bird nesting habitat. Special value to native bees.
Notes: Fall flowers are a nectar source for bees and butterflies
Common AZ Species
- Lycium brevipes: In cultivation it flowers any month with best blooms from November through March. Common names include Baja Desert Thorn, Fruitilla.
- Lycium andersonii: Rounded bush 4-6′ tall. Common names include Anderson Wolfberry, Desert Wolfberry and Thornberry.
- Lycium berlandieri: Upright bush 4-8′ tall. Common name is Berlandier’s Wolfberry.
- Lycium californicum: Rounded bush to 6′ tall by 10′ across. Common name is California Box Thorn.
- Lycium exsertum: Rounded bush to 8′ x 8′. Common names are Arizona Desert Thorn and Thornbush.
- Lycium fremontii: Rounded bush to 6′ tall. Common name is Fremont’s Thornbush.
Resources
PW Interpretive Trails Project – Join Us!
Imagine a world where every garden, school yard, and public space becomes an immersive and educational experience.
A place where nature and knowledge intertwine to create stunning interpretive trails.
With a simple scan using your smartphone, you’ll unlock a whole new level of information and convenience.
No more searching through countless books or websites to find details about your plants.
