How to grow Goji berries

The latest plant to go into our New Zealand garden at Taylor's Mistake is a Goji berry. I had never seen them in a nursery before and got quite excited when I found them, Dad had no choice but to put one in the trolley along with some good quality organic potting mix, some compost, a large bag of mulch and a self watering pot. (He had earlier that day said he needed a plant and a pot on the new side deck, of course for my thoughts went straight to something that was edible and of course was delighted when i found the Goji berry!!!)

Ripe Goji berries

GOJI BERRY

(LYCIUM BARBARIUM)

The Goji berry or Wolf berry as it is sometimes known is a common name for the fruit of two very closely related species, Lycium Barbarbium and L. Chinense, two species of boxthorn and in the family Solanaceae, (same family as tomato, potato, capsicum, eggplant, chilli, tobacco).

They are deciduous (lose their leaves in winter), woody Perennial plants and will grow anywhere from 1-3 metres high. L. Chinense is a slightly shorter growing plant than the Lycium Barbarium.

I have purchased a Lycium Barbarium variety and did not see the other variety for sale in the nursery, you may be able to find it online if you do some research, however as the plants are so closely related I don't think it would really matter which variety you buy.

The plant itself is very adaptable, it prefers climates that are hot and dry in summer but will grow just about anywhere, including humid climates. It will flourish in full sun except in really hot climates. It can also withstand heavy frosts, although growth is likely to be a little slower.

Goji plants like a well composted and well drained soil and can be grown in pots or in the garden. They will not grow huge in pots however because they stop growing once their roots hit the bottom of the pot, for this reason it is a good idea to pot in a deeper rather than wider pot.

The plant has thin canes and green lance shaped leaves. The flowers are white and purple, long thin green berries will form from these flowers (like Thai chillies). The berries will mature in summer to an orange colour and can be picked and eaten raw. The flavour is similar to a cranberry and they are packed full of nutrition.

Apparently it takes a few years before the plant will fruit so don't become impatient, you can use the leaves in salads in the meantime.

Nutritional Benefits:

The Goji berry is packed full of the following:

• 18 Amino acids
• 22 Trace minerals
• 6 Monosaccharides
• 8 Polysaccharides
• 5 Unsaturated fatty acids
• 11 essential minerals
• Antioxidants
• Vitamins A,C, E and 3 x B vitamins
• 4 Carotenoides
• Beta Carotene

Our Goji berry planted , have put lettuces around the base for a short term project as well!