trefle.io · Taken Mar 11, 2021 by El Σinani Muha (cc-by-sa)
Solanaceae
African boxthorn
Lycium ferocissimum
Also known as African desert thorn, African boxtree, Lycium ferocissimum, Lycium macrocalyx
Native Plants · Boxthorn · Shrub · Spiny · Hedge · Solanaceae · Coastal · Arid · South-Africa · Bird-Friendly · Invasive-Potential
African boxthorn is a tough, spiny shrub adapted to coastal and arid conditions, making it extremely low-maintenance once established in a sunny spot. It produces small lilac flowers followed by red berries that attract birds, though it can spread aggressively and is considered invasive in some regions outside its native range. Best used as a security hedge in warm, dry climates where its vigorous growth can be managed.
Growing conditions
The details behind the basics
- Daily light
- 5 hours
- Watering
- Deep, infrequent waterings; allow soil to dry thoroughly between sessions · Every 14-21 days once established
- Maintenance
- Low
- Cycle
- Perennial
Form & growth
Mature size and habit
- Spacing
- 60 in apart
- Growth rate
- Moderate
- Flowers
- No
Ecology & origin
Where it belongs and what it brings
- Native to
- Algeria, California, Cape Provinces, Cyprus, Free State, Lesotho, Morocco, New South Wales, New Zealand North, Norfolk Is., Northern Territory, Queensland, South Australia, Spain, Tasmania, Tunisia, Victoria, Western Australia
- Attracts
- Birds, Bees
Sources: trefle, usda
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