Contents
Description
Lycium Europaeum, also known as European boxthorn, is a species of flowering plant in the Solanaceae family. It is a deciduous shrub that can grow up to 3 meters in height. The plant is native to central and southern Europe, western Asia, and northern Africa. It has been used for medicinal purposes for centuries.
Taxonomic Information
| Domain | Eukaryota |
| Kingdom | Plantae |
| Phylum | Spermatophyta |
| Class | Magnoliopsida |
| Order | Solanales |
| Family | Solanaceae |
| Genus | Lycium |
Appearance
The European boxthorn has thin, arching branches that form a dense bush. The leaves are oval-shaped and light green in color. The plant produces small, pale purple flowers that bloom from May to September. The fruit is a red or orange berry, which is edible but not commonly consumed due to its bitter taste.
Care Guide
The European boxthorn is a hardy plant that requires little maintenance. However, it prefers well-draining soil and full sun exposure. It is drought-tolerant but should be watered regularly during prolonged dry periods. Fertilization is not necessary but can be done with a balanced fertilizer in the spring. The plant is hardy to USDA zones 6-9.
Common Pests & Diseases
The European boxthorn is relatively pest-free but can be susceptible to spider mites and aphids. It is also prone to fungal diseases such as powdery mildew and leaf spot. These can be prevented by ensuring adequate air circulation around the plant and avoiding overhead watering.
Habitat
The European boxthorn is native to central and southern Europe, western Asia, and northern Africa. It can be found in dry, rocky areas, along roadsides, and in wastelands. It is also commonly grown as an ornamental plant in gardens and parks.
Question and Answer
Q: Is the European boxthorn edible?
A: Yes, the fruit is edible but has a bitter taste.
Q: Where is the European boxthorn native to?
A: It is native to central and southern Europe, western Asia, and northern Africa.
Q: What are some common pests and diseases that affect the European boxthorn?
A: Spider mites, aphids, powdery mildew, and leaf spot.
Q: What are the ideal growing conditions for the European boxthorn?
A: It prefers well-draining soil, full sun exposure, and is hardy to USDA zones 6-9.
Related Plants
- Lycium barbarum
- Lycium chinense
- Lycium ferocissimum
- Lycium intricatum
References
- “Lycium europaeum L.” Plants of the World Online. Kew Science. Accessed 18 October 2021. http://powo.science.kew.org/taxon/urn:lsid:ipni.org:names:814400-1
- “Lycium europaeum.” Missouri Botanical Garden. Accessed 18 October 2021. http://www.missouribotanicalgarden.org/PlantFinder/PlantFinderDetails.aspx?kempercode=e875
- “Lycium europaeum.” Royal Horticultural Society. Accessed 18 October 2021. https://www.rhs.org.uk/Plants/101788/Lycium-europaeum/Details
