Contents
Description
Lycium Pallidum, commonly known as the pale wolfberry, is a woody shrub belonging to the Solanaceae family. It is native to the southwestern United States and Mexico, where it grows in arid regions, including deserts and rocky slopes.
Taxonomic Information
| Domain | Eukarya |
| Kingdom | Plantae |
| Phylum | Tracheophyta |
| Class | Magnoliopsida |
| Order | Solanales |
| Family | Solanaceae |
| Genus | Lycium |
Appearance
The Lycium Pallidum shrub can grow up to 7 feet tall and 5 feet wide. It has small, narrow leaves that are pale green in color. The plant produces small, trumpet-shaped flowers that are pale purple or white in color. The flowers give way to small, red berries that are edible but not particularly flavorful.
Care Guide
Lycium Pallidum is a low-maintenance plant that is easy to care for. Here are some tips for keeping your plant healthy:
- Water: Water the plant deeply once a week during the growing season. Allow the soil to dry out between waterings.
- Fertilization: Fertilize the plant once a month during the growing season with a balanced fertilizer.
- Soil: Lycium Pallidum prefers well-draining soil that is slightly alkaline.
- Sunlight: The plant prefers full sun but can tolerate some shade.
- Hardiness Zones: Lycium Pallidum is hardy in USDA zones 8-11.
Common Pests & Diseases
Like most plants, Lycium Pallidum is susceptible to certain pests and diseases. Here are some of the most common:
- Aphids: These small insects can cause damage by sucking the sap out of the leaves and stems. They can be controlled with insecticidal soap or neem oil.
- Spider mites: These tiny pests can cause damage by feeding on the plant’s leaves. They can be controlled with insecticidal soap or neem oil.
- Root rot: Overwatering can lead to root rot, which can be fatal to the plant. Make sure to allow the soil to dry out between waterings.
Habitat
Lycium Pallidum is native to the southwestern United States and Mexico, where it grows in arid regions, including deserts and rocky slopes. It is often found growing alongside other desert plants, such as cacti and succulents.
Question and Answer
Q: Is Lycium Pallidum poisonous?
A: No, Lycium Pallidum is not poisonous. In fact, the berries are edible, although they are not particularly flavorful.
Q: Can Lycium Pallidum be grown in containers?
A: Yes, Lycium Pallidum can be grown in containers as long as the container is large enough to accommodate the plant’s root system.
Q: Does Lycium Pallidum attract wildlife?
A: Yes, Lycium Pallidum is known to attract birds and other wildlife, who feed on the plant’s berries.
Q: How often should I prune my Lycium Pallidum?
A: Pruning is not necessary for Lycium Pallidum, but if you want to shape the plant or control its size, you can prune it in the late winter or early spring.
Related Plants
- Lycium Barbarum
- Lycium Chinense
- Lycium Europaeum
References
- “Lycium pallidum – Pale Wolfberry.” Arizona State University. https://cals.arizona.edu/yavapaiplants/SpeciesDetailForb.php?genus=Lycium&species=pallidum
- “Lycium pallidum.” DesertUSA. https://www.desertusa.com/flowers/pale-wolfberry.html
- “Lycium pallidum.” Lady Bird Johnson Wildflower Center. https://www.wildflower.org/plants/result.php?id_plant=LYPA2
