Lycium barbarum WOLFBERRY (plant)

Goya berry or Goji, is a small, hardy, and perennial shrub reaching a few meters in height, belonging to the large Solanaceae family. It is native to China in Asia and has a relatively fast growth rate.

The stems are thorny, very flexible, and branched, reminiscent of finger lime stems. They are often green in color but can turn brown or grayish with age as they become woody.

Its flowers are bell-shaped and purple, sometimes with white hues. They measure 2 to 3 cm in length. Flowering generally occurs in summer and can last until autumn.

The edible berries named Goji are red, measure 2 centimeters in length, and are oval-shaped. Its fruits generally appear after 3 to 5 years on a plant grown from seed. Fruiting takes place on the current year's wood; therefore, it is advised not to prune it back too heavily to ensure a good harvest.

- Uses:

Goji berries are frequently consumed dried to boost daily energy levels. They are easily mixed into breakfast cereals or dried fruit medleys.

In cooking, these small fruits fit perfectly into smoothies or herbal teas. They add a sweet and tangy touch while enriching your preparations with antioxidants.

Some people also use goji in powder form or as concentrated juice. These formats allow for quick integration into baking recipes or original sauces.

- Cultivation and planting:

• Plant the goji plant in a 3 to 5-liter pot with good potting soil rich in organic matter or directly in the garden.
• Drain the bottom of the pot well with clay pebbles to avoid any water stagnation.
• Gently pack the substrate during planting.
• Water copiously at the base of the plant.
• Place it in a shaded area for a few days, then in full sun.

- Substrate:

It prefers well-drained, light soil rich in organic matter. It can adapt to different types of soil, including clay or sandy soils, but good drainage is essential to prevent root rot.

- Exposure:

This plant thrives in full sun. Direct exposure to the sun for most of the day promotes berry production. Although it can tolerate partial shade, a lack of light can reduce growth and fruiting.

- Hardiness:

Due to its high hardiness, it is capable of withstanding temperatures ranging from -15 °C to 40 °C. It is often grown in regions with a cool temperate climate.

- Irrigation:

It is moderately drought-resistant once established, but it requires regular watering, especially during the early growth phases and fruiting periods. Slightly dry soil between waterings is acceptable.

- Reproduction / propagation:

The Chinese boxthorn can be reproduced either by seed or by cuttings, by taking healthy stems about 15 cm long and planting them in a mix of potting soil and sand, keeping the soil moist until rooting occurs.

- Pests / diseases:

It can be affected by several diseases such as downy mildew or powdery mildew. Insect attacks, such as mites and scale insects, can also harm it.