Essentials
At a Glance
Plant Type
Shrub
Height
96 inches
Width
84 inches
Light
Full Sun, Partial Sun
Zones
5, 6, 7, 8, 9
Water
Moderate, drought-tolerant once established
Humidity
Low to moderate
Lifespan
Perennial
Native To
Asia
Toxicity
Non-toxic
The Story
Plant Bio
Lycium barbarum, commonly known as goji berry, is a deciduous shrub known for its edible berries, which are rich in antioxidants. This species is renowned for its nutritional value and is commonly used in traditional medicine, making it a popular choice for edible landscaping.
Bloom Period:
Uses & Benefits:
Marketplace
Where to Buy
Shipping costs Year-round shipping Free shipping
Planting
How to Grow
- Tuck seeds into well-draining soil in early spring.
- Mist cuttings regularly to maintain humidity for root development.
- Water consistently during the first growing season.
- Prune to shape and remove dead or crossing branches in late winter.
- Mulch around the base to retain moisture and suppress weeds.
- Transplant seedlings when they are strong enough, typically after 6 weeks.
Pro Tip
Ensure good drainage to prevent root rot and promote healthy growth.
Keep It Thriving
Care Guide
Do
- Water deeply but infrequently to encourage deep roots 🌱
- Prune annually to maintain shape and remove damaged branches
- Apply balanced fertilizer in early spring
- Mulch to conserve moisture and regulate soil temperature
Don't
- Overwater which can cause root rot ❌
- Neglect pruning, leading to overgrown and unhealthy plants
- Use heavy soil that retains excess water
- Expose young plants to harsh winter winds without protection
Seasonal Care Calendar
| Task | Jan | Feb | Mar | Apr | May | Jun | Jul | Aug | Sep | Oct | Nov | Dec |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Fertilize | ||||||||||||
| Harvest | ||||||||||||
| Mulch | ||||||||||||
| Plant | ||||||||||||
| Prune |
Watch Out For
Pests & Diseases
Common Pests
Common Diseases
In the Garden
Landscape Uses & Companions
Landscape Uses
Companion Plants
Multiply
Propagation Methods
Good to Know
Common Questions
Goji Berry questions
What zones can Goji Berry grow in?
Goji Berry is hardy in USDA Zones 5–9. Inside that range it survives winter in the ground; outside it, grow it as an annual or a container plant you protect.
Is Goji Berry deer resistant?
Yes — Goji Berry is rated deer-resistant. Deer typically pass it over, though extreme hunger can override any plant's defenses.
When does Goji Berry bloom?
Goji Berry typically blooms in early summer through late summer. Exact timing shifts a week or two with your zone — Sow's bloom calendar maps it to your garden.
Does Goji Berry need full sun?
Goji Berry does best in full sun to part shade. In hot climates, afternoon shade keeps blooms fresher longer.
Is Goji Berry drought tolerant?
Yes — once established (usually after the first full season), Goji Berry handles dry spells with minimal watering. Water deeply its first year to build the root system that makes that possible.
Keep exploring
Explore the genus
Collections featuring this plant
Hardy in your zone?
Grow Goji Berry with confidence
See it in a design of your actual yard, get zone-matched care reminders, and track it season by season in your garden journal.
