Lycium afrum, the kraal honey thorn (Afrikaans: kraalkriedoring) is a shrub in the potato family (Solanaceae). The species is native to the Cape Province in South Africa. It has appeared in Australia and is regarded with some concern as possibly invasive. Australian government factsheets remark that in Australia it is an uncommon hedge plant, sparingly naturalised in a few areas in Victoria.
Chinese wolfberry is highly resistant to disease and usually does not easily get sick. In terms of care, this plant is fairly low-maintenance. When grown outdoors it needs little watering, and larger plants typically do not need pruning. However, smaller plants should be pruned after they finish blooming. Chinese wolfberryt is suitable for anyone with an outdoor area, such as a garden or deck, and does not require much gardening experience.
How to keep Lycium Afrum.
Light
Chinese wolfberry does best in strong sunlight but is also able to survive in areas with gentler light. Its native environment received abundant sun, which supports healthy development. However, too much or too little sunlight can damage its health. It is capable of adjusting to different sunlight levels during its growth.
Temperature
The Chinese wolfberry plant, a temperate woody species, grows best in its native habitat at temperatures of 10 to 35 ℃ (50–95 ℉). It prefers that range but can withstand a slightly broader span of 5 to 40 ℃ (41–104 ℉). In winter, it is recommended to keep indoor temperatures above 5 ℃ (41 ℉) to prevent frost damage.
Fertilizer
Fertilize your Chinese wolfberry in early spring to encourage healthy growth. Regular feeding improves overall health, producing vigorous growth, greater tolerance of harsh conditions, and enhanced resistance to pests and diseases. Follow a specific fertilization routine to keep the foliage rich in color and lush in appearance.
Pot & Repot
When repotting Chinese wolfberry, select a pot 1-2 inches (2.5–5.1 cm) larger with good drainage. Use a well-draining potting mix. Repot in spring or fall, making sure the root ball is slightly lower than the rim of the flower pot. Water thoroughly after repotting and place in a warm spot with indirect sunlight.
Botanical profile.
- Plant Type
- Shrub, Vine
- Life Cycle
- Perennial
- Genus
- Lycium
- Family
- Solanaceae
- Hardiness Zone
- 6-9
- Mature Height
- 3.05 m
- Mature Spread
- 3.96 m
- Leaf Color
- Green, Gray
- Leaf Type
- Deciduous
- Flower Color
- Purple, Lavender
- Flower Size
- 2.54 cm
- Bloom Time
- Late spring, Early summer, Mid summer
- Planting Time
- Spring, Autumn
- Harvest Time
- Mid summer
- Native Area
- Nepal, Saudi Arabia, Iraq, Turkey, Syria, India, Indonesia, Egypt, Armenia, Azerbaijan, Lebanon, China
Other names.
