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Description
Lycium Brevipes, also known as Baja California Desert Thorn, is a species of flowering plant in the nightshade family, Solanaceae. It is native to the southwestern United States and northwestern Mexico, specifically found in California, Nevada, Arizona, Sonora, and Baja California. This perennial shrub typically grows up to 6 feet tall and 10 feet wide, with small purple flowers and orange-red berries. It is a popular plant for landscaping due to its attractive appearance and low maintenance requirements.
Taxonomic Information
| Domain | Eukarya |
|---|---|
| Kingdom | Plantae |
| Phylum | Spermatophyta |
| Class | Magnoliopsida |
| Order | Solanales |
| Family | Solanaceae |
| Genus | Lycium |
| Species | Lycium Brevipes |
Appearance
Lycium Brevipes is a sprawling shrub with thorny branches and small, green leaves. The leaves are oval-shaped and measure about 1 inch in length. The plant produces small purple flowers, which bloom from March to April, followed by orange-red berries that ripen from May to June. The berries are edible and have a sweet taste, though they are not commonly consumed by humans. The plant’s thorny branches make it an excellent choice for creating a natural barrier or hedge.
Care Guide
To care for Lycium Brevipes, it is important to provide the plant with adequate water and fertilizer. The plant prefers well-draining soil and full sunlight, though it can tolerate partial shade. It is hardy in USDA zones 8-11, making it an ideal plant for warmer climates. Pruning is not necessary, but can be done to shape the plant or remove dead or damaged branches.
Common Pests & Diseases
Lycium Brevipes is relatively pest and disease-resistant, though it can be susceptible to spider mites and aphids. These pests can be controlled with insecticidal soap or neem oil. Root rot can occur if the plant is overwatered or planted in poorly draining soil.
Habitat
Lycium Brevipes is typically found in desert habitats, including sandy washes, canyons, and rocky slopes. It is common in the Mojave and Sonoran Deserts, as well as in Baja California. The plant is adapted to dry, arid conditions and can tolerate high temperatures and low humidity.
Question and Answer
Q: Can Lycium Brevipes be grown in containers?
A: Yes, Lycium Brevipes can be grown in containers as long as they are large enough to accommodate the plant’s root system.
Q: Are the berries of Lycium Brevipes poisonous?
A: No, the berries of Lycium Brevipes are not poisonous, but they are not commonly consumed by humans.
Q: How often should I water my Lycium Brevipes?
A: Lycium Brevipes should be watered deeply once a week, or more often in hot, dry weather.
Q: How can I propagate Lycium Brevipes?
A: Lycium Brevipes can be propagated from cuttings or by seed. Cuttings should be taken in the spring or summer and planted in well-draining soil.
Related Plants
- Lycium Barbarum (Goji Berry)
- Lycium Chinense (Chinese Boxthorn)
- Lycium Europaeum (European Boxthorn)
- Lycium Ruthenicum (Russian Boxthorn)
References
- “Lycium Brevipes.” Calscape, California Native Plant Society, 2021, www.calscape.org/Lycium-brevipes-(Baja-California-desert-thorn)?srchcr=sc60f4e1f33d9c5.
- “Lycium Brevipes.” USDA, Natural Resources Conservation Service, 2021, plants.usda.gov/core/profile?symbol=LYBR.
- “Lycium Brevipes.” Las Pilitas Nursery, 2021, www.laspilitas.com/nature-of-california/plants/lycium-brevipes.
