1. California Boxthorn – Lycium californicum
(LISS-ee-um kal-ih-FOR-ni-kum)
Family: Solanaceae (Nightshade Family)
Native to: S. coast and Channel Islands of S. CA to Baja; washes, hillsides and coastal bluffs, in
coastal sage scrub, below 1500'.
Rare in nature due to limited (and decreasing) habitat.
woody shrub
mature height: 3-8+ ft.
mature width: 3-8+ ft.
Drought-deciduous (evergreen with more water) erect shrub with many spiny branches. Overall
shape roughly mounded. Leaves are succulent, small (< ½ inch), arise directly from the branches.
Growth characteristics:
Blooms in spring (Mar-Jul). Flowers small (< ½ inch across), green-white to
purple-tinged, on short stems. Fruits are firm, red, like a very small tomato.
Fruits are more
showy than the flowers.
Blooms/fruits:
Uses in the garden: Mostly used in restoration and habitat gardens. Unique addition to the droughttolerant garden. Tolerates seaside conditions. Good under Torrey Pines. Would make a good large
shrub, natural hedge or barrier. Edible cooked fruits can be used to make a tomato-like sauce.
Sensible substitute for: Non-native drought-tolerant shrubs.
Attracts: Excellent bird habitat: provides cover and berries for food.
Requirements:
Element
Sun
Soil
Water
Fertilizer
Other
Requirement
Full sun (coast) to part-shade.
Any well-drained, but sandy or rocky best; any local pH.
Dry to semi-dry soil – Water Zones 1-2 to 2.
None
Management:
Little needed under dry conditions. Remove dead branches.
Propagation: from seed: yes; fresh seed
by cuttings: use growth hormone; difficult
Plant/seed sources (see list for source numbers): 1, 6, 13, 14
3/28/09
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