European tea-tree
Lycium europaeumfam. Solonaceae
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Pl. 85F3 — Lycium europaeum
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IOverview
Overview
The European tea-tree (Lycium europaeum) is a member of the Solanaceae family and is native to regions including Corse, Albania, Algeria, Greece, Italy, Egypt, and France. Known for its edible and medicinal properties, this plant thrives in full sun with moist soil that can range from light sandy to heavy clay. It grows up to 4 meters tall and is hardy in zones 8-11. The fruit, leaves, and shoots are all edible parts of the plant. One distinctive feature is its ability to provide both culinary and therapeutic benefits, making it a valuable addition to gardens and landscapes.
Quick answers
What is European tea-tree?
The European tea-tree (Lycium europaeum) is a member of the Solanaceae family and is native to regions including Corse, Albania, Algeria, Greece, Italy, Egypt, and France. Known for its edible and medicinal properties, this plant thrives in full sun with moist soil that can range from light sandy to heavy clay.
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.
Digestive Harmony
digestiontincture
Historically used for digestive issues.
Growingconditions · propagation · uses
VCultivation
Cultivation
The European tea-tree thrives in full sun and prefers moist soil that can be light (sandy), medium, or heavy (clay). It is hardy in zones 8-11, making it suitable for warmer climates. This plant grows up to 4 meters tall and can be propagated through its fruit, leaves, and shoots. Ensure the soil remains consistently moist but avoid overwatering to prevent root rot.
Light
Full sun
Water
Moist
Soil
Light (sandy), Medium, Heavy (clay)
Hardiness
8-11
Mature size
4.0 m tall
For first-time growers
How to grow European tea-tree for the first time
8steps
Start with a simple, sunny spot and basic soil preparation for your European tea-tree.
- 1
What you'll need
Seeds or small plants, potting mix, watering can.
- 2
Best time to plant
Plant in spring when the threat of frost has passed.
- 3
Soil and container prep
Use a well-draining soil mix; ensure containers are at least 30 cm deep.
- 4
Sowing or transplanting
Direct sow seeds outdoors after danger of frost, or start indoors 4-6 weeks before planting out.
- 5
First two weeks
Keep soil consistently moist; water daily until plants are established.
- 6
Ongoing care
Water when the top inch of soil feels dry; mulch to retain moisture. Fertilize lightly in spring.
- 7
Harvest or pruning
Prune after flowering to maintain shape and encourage new growth.
- 8
Common mistakes
Overwatering, planting too deep, neglecting to prune.
VIEdible & utility
Edible & utility
Edible parts:FruitLeavesShoots
Edible uses: The European tea-tree's fruit, leaves, and shoots are edible. The fruits can be eaten raw or used in various preparations, while the leaves and tender shoots are often cooked as greens. They can also be dried for later use. Skip harvesting young shoots to ensure the plant continues to produce fruit.
Other uses:Erosion control
Contextrange · companions · related
VIIDistribution
21 native · 9 introduced
Distribution
21 native · 9 introducedDistribution across3 continents· 21 native· 9 introduced
Europe11 regions
native (6)AlbaniaFranceGreeceItalyPortugalSpain
introduced (5)AlbaniaFranceGreecePortugalSpain
Asia2 regions
native (2)PalestineTurkey
Africa7 regions
native (5)AlgeriaEgyptLibyaMoroccoTunisia
introduced (2)AlgeriaEgypt
Broader regions
native:East Aegean Is., Lebanon-Syria, Sinai, Turkey-in-Europe, Yugoslavia
introduced:East Aegean Is.
IXSpecimen gallery
1 image
Specimen gallery
1 imageXSee also
2 related
See also
2 relatedPlants you might compare or use together — scored by shared family (Solonaceae), common use cases, and growing requirements.
same family · Solonaceae
Botanical relatives — often share phytochemistry + growing needs.
XI
Explore further
Companion planting
Compare with similar plants
Growing zone
XII
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