Goji berry (Lycium chinense)
Care, watering, light and tips for Goji berry on Floravia.
Quick facts
- Family: Solanaceae
- Difficulty: Moderate care
- Watering: every 4 days
- Light: Full sun
- Temperature: 10–35 °C
- Toxicity: Toxic to pets
About Goji berry
Lycium chinense, known as Chinese Goji or kinabukketorn, is a deciduous shrub from the Solanaceae family, valued for its edible red fruits and ornamental qualities. It features arching branches and lanceolate leaves, producing small purple flowers that give way to the berries. It is ideal for informal hedges, growing in large pots on patios, or as part of an edible garden.
Native range
East Asia, including China, Japan, and Korea
Care tips
It requires full sun for optimal fruiting and prefers well-drained, slightly alkaline soils. Watering should be regular during flowering and fruiting, reducing it in winter; avoid waterlogging which can rot the roots. A common mistake is lack of pruning, resulting in reduced fruit production and unruly growth. Prune in late winter to stimulate new shoot growth and improve the harvest.
How to save a dying Goji berry
- Warning signs
- Yellow or dropping leaves, soft stems, dry or no fruit.
- First aid
- Check drainage and watering. Repot if in container.
- What kills it
- Overwatering or prolonged drought. Low light or poor soil.
- Can it be saved?
- Yes, if you act quickly. It's quite resilient.