Contents
Description
Lycium Horridum, commonly known as the African Boxthorn, is a thorny shrub that belongs to the family Solanaceae. It is native to Africa but can also be found in Australia, Europe, and New Zealand. The plant can grow up to 5 meters in height and has a spreading habit. It has green leaves that are oval-shaped and grow up to 5 cm long. The flowers of Lycium Horridum are small and white, and the fruit is a red berry that is about 1 cm in diameter. The plant is known for its thorny branches, which make it an excellent choice for hedges and borders.
Taxonomic Information
| Domain | Eukarya |
|---|---|
| Kingdom | Plantae |
| Phylum | Tracheophyta |
| Class | Magnoliopsida |
| Order | Solanales |
| Family | Solanaceae |
| Genus | Lycium |
Appearance
The leaves of Lycium Horridum are green and oval-shaped, and they grow up to 5 cm long. The flowers are small and white, and the fruit is a red berry that is about 1 cm in diameter. The plant has thorny branches, which make it an excellent choice for hedges and borders. The shrub can grow up to 5 meters in height and has a spreading habit.
Care Guide
Lycium Horridum is a hardy plant that is easy to care for. Here are some tips on how to care for this plant:
- Water: The plant requires moderate watering, and it is best to water it deeply once a week.
- Fertilization: You can fertilize the plant once a month during its growing season using a balanced fertilizer.
- Soil: The shrub prefers well-draining soil that is slightly acidic.
- Sunlight: Lycium Horridum thrives in full sun but can also tolerate partial shade.
- Hardiness Zones: The plant is hardy in USDA zones 9 to 11.
Common Pests & Diseases
Lycium Horridum is relatively pest and disease-free, but it can suffer from some common problems:
- Spider mites: These tiny pests can cause leaf discoloration and webbing on the plant. You can control them by using insecticidal soap or neem oil.
- Aphids: These sap-sucking insects can cause stunted growth and leaf distortion. You can control them by using insecticidal soap or neem oil.
- Root rot: Overwatering or poorly draining soil can cause root rot, which can be fatal to the plant. You can prevent it by ensuring that the soil is well-draining.
Habitat
Lycium Horridum is native to Africa but can also be found in Australia, Europe, and New Zealand. It thrives in dry, arid regions and is well-adapted to hot climates.
Question and Answer
Q: Is Lycium Horridum toxic to humans or animals?
A: No, the plant is not toxic to humans or animals.
Q: Can Lycium Horridum survive in cold climates?
A: No, the plant is not hardy in cold climates.
Q: How often should I fertilize Lycium Horridum?
A: You can fertilize the plant once a month during its growing season using a balanced fertilizer.
Q: Can Lycium Horridum be grown in containers?
A: Yes, the plant can be grown in containers, but it will require regular watering and fertilization.
Related Plants
- Lycium Barbarum
- Lycium Chinense
- Lycium Europaeum
- Lycium Ruthenicum
References
- https://www.gardeningknowhow.com/ornamental/shrubs/boxthorn/growing-boxthorn-plants.htm
- https://www.gardenia.net/plant/lycium-horridum-african-boxthorn
- https://www.rhs.org.uk/plants/14567/Lycium-horridum/Details
