Scientific Classification

• Kingdom: Plantae
• Phylum: Tracheophytes
• Clade: Angiosperms
• Clade: Eudicots
• Clade: Asterids
• Order: Solanales
• Family: Solanaceae
• Genus: Lycium
• Species: Lycium barbarum, Lycium chinense

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Morphological Characteristics

Plant Growth & Appearance

Goji berry plants are deciduous shrubs that thrive in temperate and subtropical climates.

• Height: 1 - 3 meters (3 - 10 feet)
• Growth Habit: Upright to trailing branches
• Leaves: Narrow, lanceolate, and bright green
• Flowers: Purple or light lavender, bell-shaped
• Fruits: Bright red, oval-shaped berries (1 - 2 cm in diameter)

The shrubs bloom in spring and early summer, producing small, trumpet-like flowers that attract bees and pollinators.

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Fruit Characteristics

The goji berry is known for its vivid red color and mildly sweet, tangy taste.

• Color: Bright red or orange-red when ripe
• Size: 1 - 2 cm (0.4 - 0.8 inches) in diameter
• Flavor: Mildly sweet with a slight tangy aftertaste
• Texture: Soft, juicy (fresh) or wrinkled (dried)
• Nutritional Value: Rich in vitamins A, C, and antioxidants

Fresh goji berries resemble small cherry tomatoes but are more delicate, while dried goji berries have a chewy, raisin-like texture.

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Habitat & Distribution

Goji berries are native to East Asia and have been cultivated for centuries in China, Japan, and Korea. Today, they are also grown in:

• China (Ningxia & Xinjiang - largest producers)
• Mongolia, Tibet, and India
• North America (USA & Canada - emerging markets)
• Australia & Europe (limited commercial cultivation)

The Ningxia goji berry is particularly prized for its superior quality due to the region’s alkaline soil and river irrigation.

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Goji Berry Care Guide

Lighting Requirements

✅ Ideal Light: Full sun (6 - 8 hours per day)
❌ Avoid:

• Too much shade, which reduces fruiting
• Excessive heat, which may dry out the plant

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Soil & Watering

✅ Ideal Soil: Well-draining, loamy or sandy soil rich in organic matter, with a pH of 6.5 - 8.0

✔ Recommended Soil Mix:

• 1 part sandy soil
• 1 part compost or aged manure
• 1 part perlite (to improve drainage)

✅ Watering Frequency:

• Young plants: 2 - 3 times per week
• Mature plants: Once a week, deep watering

? Signs of Overwatering: Root rot, yellowing leaves
? Signs of Underwatering: Wilting, dry and curled leaves

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Temperature & Humidity

? Ideal Temperature Range: 15 - 30°C (59 - 86°F)
❄ Cold Hardiness: Can tolerate temperatures as low as -10°C (14°F) but needs protection from severe frost

? Humidity Requirements:
✔ Prefers moderate to low humidity
✔ Good air circulation helps prevent fungal infections

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Fertilization

• Spring: Apply balanced fertilizer (10-10-10) when new growth appears
• Summer: Side-dress with organic compost or seaweed extract
• Fall & Winter: Reduce fertilization as the plant enters dormancy

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Propagation of Goji Berries

Growing from Seeds

Goji berries can be grown from seeds or cuttings, though cuttings produce faster results.

✅ Steps for Seed Propagation:

1. Extract seeds from ripe goji berries and dry them for 24 hours.
2. Sow seeds in a well-draining potting mix.
3. Keep the soil moist but not soggy and maintain warm temperatures (20 - 25°C / 68 - 77°F).
4. Germination occurs within 7 - 14 days.
5. Transplant seedlings to larger pots when they reach 15 cm (6 inches) in height.

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Common Issues & Pests

? Common Pests:

• Aphids (sap-sucking insects that weaken plants)
• Whiteflies (cause leaf yellowing and curling)
• Spider mites (cause fine webbing and leaf damage)

? Prevention & Treatment:
✔ Use neem oil or insecticidal soap
✔ Encourage natural predators like ladybugs

? Common Diseases:

• Powdery mildew (white fungal coating on leaves)
• Root rot (caused by excessive watering)
• Leaf spot (brown or yellow fungal patches on leaves)

✔ Solution:

• Improve air circulation
• Use organic fungicides
• Avoid overhead watering

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Uses of Goji Berries

Culinary Uses

? Fresh Consumption: Enjoyed raw, in salads, or as a snack.
? Teas & Beverages: Added to herbal teas and smoothies.
? Desserts: Used in cakes, cookies, and energy bars.
? Savory Dishes: Pairs well with meats, soups, and stir-fries.

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Medicinal & Nutritional Benefits

Goji berries are rich in antioxidants and essential vitamins, offering potential health benefits.

✅ Health Benefits:

• Supports immune health (high in vitamin C)
• Improves vision (contains lutein & zeaxanthin)
• Enhances skin health (rich in beta-carotene)
• Supports liver & kidney function (traditional Chinese medicine)

⚠️ Note: Many exaggerated health claims about goji berries lack scientific backing.

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Interesting Facts About Goji Berries

? Historical Use: Used in traditional Chinese medicine for over 2,000 years.
? Goji Wine: Used in herbal wines and medicinal tonics.
? China: The largest global producer of goji berries.
⚠️ Pesticides: Some goji berries may contain high pesticide residues—buy organic when possible.