Lycium europaeum
Care, watering, light and tips for Lycium europaeum on Floravia.
Quick facts
- Family: Solanaceae
- Difficulty: Easy to care for
- Watering: every 7 days
- Light: Full sun
- Temperature: 10–35 °C
- Toxicity: Toxic to pets
About Lycium europaeum
Lycium europaeum, also known as European Boxthorn, is a deciduous or semi-deciduous shrub belonging to the Solanaceae family, capable of reaching up to 3 meters in height. It is characterized by its thorny branches and small, pale purple to white flowers, followed by red or orange berries. This plant is ideal for defensive hedges, restoring degraded soils, or as part of a wildlife garden, as its fruits are attractive to birds.
Native range
Europe and Western Asia
Care tips
This species is very hardy and adaptable, thriving in full sun in well-drained soils, even poor or saline ones. Watering should be moderate once established, as it tolerates drought periods. A common mistake is over-fertilizing, as it prefers rather poor soil conditions. Prune lightly in winter to maintain its shape and control its thorny growth.
How to save a dying Lycium europaeum
- Warning signs
- Yellow/dry leaves, soft/black stems, no new shoots.
- First aid
- Check roots for rot. Prune dead branches. Adjust watering and sun exposure.
- What kills it
- Overwatering (root rot) or prolonged drought (especially when young).
- Can it be saved?
- Yes, if rot hasn't reached stem base or drought wasn't extreme.