Goji Berry (Lycium barbarum), also known as Wolfberry, is a hardy, fruiting shrub valued for its ornamental beauty and bright red berries. Originating from Asia, it’s now grown worldwide for its adaptability, resilience, and landscape appeal. The shrub features slender branches, light purple flowers, and abundant clusters of red berries in late summer.
This Non-GMO, low-maintenance shrub is well suited for home gardens, edible landscapes, and naturalized plantings. It tolerates a variety of soil types, resists drought once established, and attracts pollinators and birds. The Goji Berry plant provides long-lasting seasonal color and ecological value while thriving in a wide range of growing conditions.
Features
- Produces abundant clusters of bright red berries
- Non-GMO, drought-tolerant, and easy to grow
- Blooms with attractive purple flowers in summer
- Hardy in USDA zones 5–9
- Suitable for containers, borders, or garden beds
- Provides food and habitat for pollinators and birds
Specifications
- Scientific Name: Lycium barbarum
- Common Name: Goji Berry / Wolfberry
- Plant Type: Deciduous fruiting shrub
- Growth Height: 6–10 feet
- Spread: 4–6 feet
- USDA Hardiness Zones: 5–9
- Sunlight: Full sun to light shade
- Soil Type: Well-drained loamy or sandy soil; tolerates poor soil
- Bloom Season: Summer (June–August)
- Fruit Season: Late summer to fall
- Flower Color: Lavender to light purple
- Fruit Color: Red to orange-red
- Foliage: Narrow green leaves turning yellow in fall
- GMO Status: Non-GMO
- Planting Season: Spring or fall
- Sowing Depth: ¼ inch
- Germination Time: 14–28 days at 70–85°F
- Watering Needs: Moderate; drought-tolerant once established
- Maintenance: Prune after fruiting to shape plant and promote new growth
- Wildlife Benefits: Attracts pollinators and birds
- Uses: Edible landscaping, ornamental shrub, wildlife gardens
Planting Guide
- Soak Seeds: Soak in warm water for 24 hours before planting.
- Prepare Soil: Choose well-drained soil in a sunny location.
- Sow Seeds: Plant ¼ inch deep and cover lightly with soil.
- Light: Provide full sun for maximum fruit production.
- Watering: Keep soil evenly moist until seedlings establish.
- Spacing: 4–6 feet apart for individual plants or hedges.
- Care: Prune after the first year to maintain shape and encourage fruiting.