Goji Berry (Phoenix Tears)

The Phoenix Tears Goji Berry (Lyceum barbarum) originates from certain regions of Asia. The fruits, which are a vibrant orange, are rich in nutrients, boasting a higher carotene content than carrots. These jellybean-shaped fruits mature over an extended period in mid-summer, with harvesting possible for as long as four weeks. Once ripe, the fruits remain attached to the stems for quite some time. They have a sweet taste with a hint of acidity.

This multi-stemmed shrub reaches heights of 5 to 6 feet and spreads about 5 feet wide. It is advisable to support the branches with a simple one-wire trellis to facilitate harvesting and to bear the numerous pounds of ripened fruits produced. Delicate, light violet-hued flowers that yield fruit bloom in late spring on stems that are at least two years old. These plants, resilient to both cold and drought, thrive well in Zones 3-8.

Plant Characteristics

The Phoenix Tears Goji Berry is a multi-stemmed shrub or a sprawling vine that can be trained to suit a garden's needs.

• Size: The plant generally reaches a mature height of 5 to 6 feet and a width of 5 feet but can grow taller if left unpruned and grown on a large trellis.

• Fruit: It produces small, jellybean-shaped, deep orange-red berries that are high in antioxidants and carotene. The fruit has a sweet flavor with a slight acidity and ripens over a long period from mid-summer through fall.

• Flowers: Light purple, bell-shaped flowers appear in late spring and continue into the summer.

• Hardiness: It is a cold- and drought-tolerant plant suitable for USDA hardiness zones 3 to 8 or 9, depending on the source.

• Thorns: This specific variety is described as thornless, making harvesting easier.

• Bearing Age: Fruit production typically begins 1 to 2 years after planting, with maximum production reached at 3 to 5 years. 

Cultivation and Care

Goji berries are relatively low-maintenance and resistant to most pests and diseases.

• Light/Location: They grow best in a location with full sun (at least 8 hours per day) and well-drained soil. Warm, dry conditions produce the best quality fruit.

• Soil: The plant tolerates a range of soil types but prefers a neutral to slightly alkaline pH (6.8-8.1). Amending the soil with organic matter can be beneficial.

• Watering: New plants need consistent watering during their first year to establish roots. Once established, they are highly drought-tolerant and rarely require additional watering.

• Pruning/Training: Pruning is not required in the first year. In subsequent years, prune in late winter or early spring to encourage new growth, as fruit forms on current year's wood. The plant can be trained on a simple one-wire trellis or through a tomato cage to manage its vining habit and support the fruit load.