Lycium afrum
Lycium afrum
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Pl. DC2A — Lycium afrum
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IOverview
Overview
Lycium afrum, known as the Cape Thorn Bush or African Boxthorn, is a shrub native to the Cape Provinces in South Africa. This plant is both edible and medicinal, with its fruit being used for various purposes. It thrives in light to medium soil types, including sandy and clay soils, and prefers a pH range of 6.5–7. Known for its hardiness in zones 8-11, Lycium afrum can grow up to 2 meters tall. Its distinctive feature includes the presence of thorns, which add to its ornamental value while also serving as a defense mechanism against herbivores.
Quick answers
What is Lycium afrum?
Lycium afrum, known as the Cape Thorn Bush or African Boxthorn, is a shrub native to the Cape Provinces in South Africa. This plant is both edible and medicinal, with its fruit being used for various purposes. It thrives in light to medium soil types, including sandy and clay soils, and prefers a pH range of 6.
IV·bMixology suggestions
2 drafts
Mixology suggestions
2 draftsEditorial drafts. These pairings are AI-suggested from traditional herbal lore. Always verify with a qualified herbalist before brewing.
Stress Relief
stresstincture
Historically used for calming the mind.
Growingconditions · propagation · uses
VCultivation
Cultivation
Lycium afrum thrives in light to moderate shade and prefers well-drained soils that are light (sandy), medium, or heavy (clay). It is best suited for areas with a consistent moisture level, ranging from dry to moist conditions. The plant is hardy in temperate regions, typically growing to about 2 meters tall. For optimal fruit production, maintain a soil pH between 6.5 and 7. Propagate Lycium afrum through cuttings or seeds.
Light
8/10
Water
Dry, Moist
Soil
Light (sandy), Medium, Heavy (clay)
Hardiness
8-11
Mature size
2.0 m tall
Soil pH
6.5–7
Seasonal calendar
Northern hemisphere · UTC month is September
winterspringsummerautumnwinter
BloomJFMAMJJASOND
For first-time growers
How to grow Lycium afrum for the first time
8steps
Start with Skip by ensuring you have the right conditions and care, making it a manageable project for beginners.
- 1
What you'll need
A small plant or seeds, well-draining soil, a pot if planting in containers.
- 2
Best time to plant
Plant Skip during spring when the weather is mild and stable.
- 3
Soil and container prep
Use a mix of light (sandy), medium, or heavy clay soil with a pH between 6.5–7. Ensure containers have drainage holes.
- 4
Sowing or transplanting
Transplant Skip from its pot to the garden bed or plant directly in the ground if large enough.
- 5
First two weeks
Water regularly but avoid overwatering, keeping the soil moist but not soggy.
- 6
Ongoing care
Provide light watering during dry periods and mulch to retain moisture. Prune lightly in spring to maintain shape.
- 7
Harvest or pruning
Prune Skip in late winter to early spring to encourage new growth and remove any dead branches.
- 8
Common mistakes
Overwatering, planting too deep, neglecting regular pruning.
VIEdible & utility
Edible & utility
Edible parts:Fruit
Edible uses: The fruit of Lycium afrum is edible and can be eaten fresh or dried. It is commonly consumed raw but can also be used to make jams or preserves. Skip the preparation details for brevity.
Other uses:HedgerowErosion control
Contextrange · companions · related
VIIDistribution
1 native · 4 introduced
Distribution
1 native · 4 introducedDistribution across1 continent· 1 native· 4 introduced
Europe3 regions
introduced (3)FranceItalySpain
Broader regions
native:Cape Provinces
introduced:Victoria
IXSpecimen gallery
1 image
Specimen gallery
1 imageXI
Explore further
Companion planting
Growing zone
XII
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