Contents
Taxonomic Information
| Domain: | Eukaryota |
|---|---|
| Kingdom: | Plantae |
| Phylum: | Tracheophyta |
| Class: | Magnoliopsida |
| Order: | Solanales |
| Family: | Solanaceae |
| Genus: | Lycium |
Appearance
Lycium Cinereum, commonly known as Desert Thorn, is a small deciduous shrub that can grow up to 1-2 meters tall. The plant has thin branches with sharp thorns and leaves that are oblong-shaped and pale green in color. The flowers are small and trumpet-shaped, with a pale pink to purple color. The plant produces small, red berries that are edible and have a sweet taste.
Care Guide
For optimal growth, it is essential to provide proper care to Lycium Cinereum.
- Water: The plant requires moderate watering, and the soil should be moist but not waterlogged.
- Fertilization: Lycium Cinereum does not require frequent fertilization, but a slow-release fertilizer can be applied once a year in the spring.
- Soil: The plant prefers well-drained soil, and a mixture of sand and loam is ideal.
- Sunlight: The plant requires full sunlight exposure and can tolerate high temperatures.
- Hardiness Zones: Lycium Cinereum can grow in hardiness zones 7-10.
Common Pests & Diseases
Lycium Cinereum is susceptible to certain pests and diseases:
- Aphids: These tiny insects can cause damage to the plant by sucking sap from leaves and stems.
- Spider Mites: These pests can cause yellowing of leaves, and a fine webbing can be seen on the plant.
- Powdery Mildew: A fungal disease that can cause a white powdery coating on the leaves and stems of the plant.
- Root Rot: Overwatering or poorly drained soil can lead to root rot, which can cause the plant to wilt and die.
Habitat
Lycium Cinereum is native to the southwestern United States and Mexico and is commonly found in arid regions. The plant can grow in rocky areas, along roadsides, and in open desert areas.
Question and Answer
Q: Are the berries of Lycium Cinereum edible?
A: Yes, the berries of Lycium Cinereum are edible and have a sweet taste.
Q: What is the ideal soil mixture for Lycium Cinereum?
A: Lycium Cinereum prefers well-drained soil, and a mixture of sand and loam is ideal.
Q: What is the hardiness zone for Lycium Cinereum?
A: Lycium Cinereum can grow in hardiness zones 7-10.
Q: What are the common pests and diseases that affect Lycium Cinereum?
A: Lycium Cinereum is susceptible to aphids, spider mites, powdery mildew, and root rot.
Related Plants
- Lycium Barbarum
- Lycium Chinense
- Lycium Europaeum
- Lycium Ruthenicum
References
- https://www.wildflower.org/plants/result.php?id_plant=LYCI
- https://www.gardeningknowhow.com/ornamental/shrubs/lycium/lycium-shrubs.htm
- https://www.gardeningknowhow.com/garden-how-to/info/what-is-a-hardiness-zone.htm
