Edible Plants of the World

Chinese boxthorn, Boxthorn, Goji berry

It is a temperate plant. It is grown as a hedge. It does well in coastal sites and on unstable sandy banks. It is best in full sun. It can with stand cold temperatures. It can also tolerate hot summers. It can grow on a wide range of soils. It cannot tolerate water-logging. It suits hardiness zones 6-10. Tasmania Herbarium.

Also known as:

Chinese matrimony vine, Chirchitta, Chirmethi, Duke of Argyle's teaplant, Ganger, Gangro, Goji berry, Gou qi zi, Kangu, Khatai, Kichar, Kutyafa, Licium, Morali, Ning xia gou qi, Wolfberry

Synonyms

Edible Portion

Where does Chinese boxthorn grow?

Found in: Africa, Argentina, Asia, Australia, Britain, China, Europe, France, Greece, Hungary, India, Iraq, Ireland, Italy, Korea, Luxembourg, Mediterranean, Mongolia, Morocco, North Africa, North America, South America, Spain, Tasmania, Turkey, United States

Notes: There are about 100 Lycium species.

Status: It is available in dried form in Chinese stores in Australia.

Growing Chinese boxthorn, Boxthorn, Goji berry

Cultivation: They can be grown from seed. Plants can also be grown from young shoot cuttings. The stems can be pegged down and roots allowed to form by layering. These can then be separated and planted. Plants should be spaced 1 m apart. They are best near a fence to scramble over.

Edible Uses: The leaves are used for flavouring. The dried red fruit are eaten in tonic soups and stew of poultry, meat or turtle. The leaves and fruit are used for making tea. The fruit can be eaten fresh or dried for later use. They are used for juice, jams, pies, desserts and sauces.

Production: It is fast growing. Plants start fruiting in the second year. Plants live for 7-10 years.

Nutrition Info

per 100g edible portion

Edible Part Energy (kcal) Protein (g) Iron (mg) Vitamin A (ug) Vitamin c (mg) Zinc (mg) % Water
- - - - - -

References

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Sp. pl. 1:192. 1753

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World Checklist of Useful Plant Species 2020. Royal Botanic Gardens, Kew