Contents
Description
Lycium Ferocissimum, also known as the Thorny Wolfberry, is a spiny shrub that belongs to the Solanaceae family. It is native to South America and can grow up to 3 meters in height. The plant produces small, white or light purple flowers that bloom in the summer and fall, followed by red berries that are edible but not commonly consumed due to their bitter taste.
Taxonomic Information
| Domain | Eukaryota |
| Kingdom | Plantae |
| Phylum | Tracheophyta |
| Class | Magnoliopsida |
| Order | Solanales |
| Family | Solanaceae |
| Genus | Lycium |
Appearance
The Thorny Wolfberry has a dense and spiny growth habit, with branches that can spread up to 2 meters wide. The leaves are small, oval-shaped, and grow in clusters along the branches. The plant produces small, white or light purple flowers that are followed by red berries that are about 1 cm in diameter. The berries are covered in thorns and have a bitter taste.
Care Guide
Care for Lycium Ferocissimum is relatively easy. The plant prefers well-draining soil and full sun exposure. It can tolerate drought conditions but needs regular watering during the growing season. Fertilize the plant with a balanced fertilizer in the spring and summer. The Thorny Wolfberry is hardy in USDA hardiness zones 9-11.
Common Pests and Diseases
Lycium Ferocissimum is relatively resistant to pests and diseases. However, it may be susceptible to spider mites, aphids, and whiteflies. These pests can be controlled with insecticidal soap or neem oil. The plant may also be affected by root rot if overwatered or planted in poorly draining soil.
Habitat
The Thorny Wolfberry is native to South America and can be found in countries such as Argentina, Chile, and Uruguay. It grows in dry, rocky areas and can also be found along roadsides and in disturbed areas.
Question and Answer
Q: Can the berries of Lycium Ferocissimum be eaten?
A: Yes, the berries are edible but have a bitter taste and are not commonly consumed.
Q: Is Lycium Ferocissimum a good plant for landscaping?
A: Yes, the Thorny Wolfberry can be used as an ornamental plant in xeriscaping or rock gardens.
Q: What is the hardiness zone for Lycium Ferocissimum?
A: The plant is hardy in USDA hardiness zones 9-11.
Q: How often should Lycium Ferocissimum be fertilized?
A: Fertilize the plant with a balanced fertilizer in the spring and summer.
Related Plants
- Lycium Barbarum (Goji Berry)
- Lycium Chinense (Chinese Wolfberry)
- Lycium Europaeum (European Wolfberry)
References
- “Lycium Ferocissimum.” Plants of the World Online, Kew Science. Accessed 14 August 2021. https://powo.science.kew.org/taxon/urn:lsid:ipni.org:names:814926-1
- “Lycium Ferocissimum.” Missouri Botanical Garden. Accessed 14 August 2021. https://www.missouribotanicalgarden.org/PlantFinder/PlantFinderDetails.aspx?taxonid=281676
- “Lycium Ferocissimum.” Dave’s Garden. Accessed 14 August 2021. https://davesgarden.com/guides/pf/go/213991/
