African Boxthorn (Lycium Ferocissimum) is a perennial shrub in the Solanaceae family with moderate care difficulty. It requires drought-tolerant watering and full sun or partial shade light in USDA hardiness zones 9-11. This plant is toxic to cats and dogs — keep it out of reach of pets.

Lycium ferocissimum is a spiny, evergreen shrub native to South Africa, known for its dense thickets and bright red berries.

African Boxthorn

African Boxthorn

Lycium Ferocissimum

Lycium ferocissimum is a spiny, evergreen shrub native to South Africa, known for its dense thickets and bright red berries.

Quick Facts

Type
shrub
Lifecycle
perennial
Care Difficulty
Moderate
Water Needs
drought-tolerant
Light
Full Sun, Partial Shade
Hardiness Zones
9-11

Safety

⚠️
Not Pet Safe
⚠️
Not Child Safe
☠️
Toxic

Growing Conditions

Soil Types:sandy, loamy, gravelly
Indoor:No
Outdoor:Yes
Garden Use:hedge, wildlife shelter, erosion control

Care Calendar

Monthly care tasks for African Boxthorn

Jan
Prune
Feb
Fertilize
Mar
Repot
Apr
Water+
May
...
Jun
...
Jul
...
Aug
...
Sep
...
Oct
...
Nov
...
Dec
...

Expert Care Tips

Pro tips from botanists and plant experts

Watering Tip

Check soil moisture by inserting your finger 1 inch deep. Water only when the top layer feels dry to prevent overwatering.

Humidity Trick

Group plants together to create...

Growth Hack

Rotate your plant every...

Photo Gallery10+ photos

African Boxthorn
African Boxthorn detail

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Taxonomy

Family:Solanaceae
Genus:Lycium