Christmas Berry - Lycium carolinianum

Christmas Berry (Lycium carolinianum) is very similar to the Chinese Goji berry because it's a close cousin but it's native to the Southeastern U.S. It forms a handsome shrub with spiny branches that are erect and spread out. Its leaves are small and succulent, and it bears lavender purple flowers. It is called Christmas Berry because the fruit appears abundantly during the winter. Without the fruit, it looks quite similar to Rosemary, but when winter rolls around, glossy red berries dot the tree, giving the plant its own distinct appearance. The berries somewhat resemble small peppers or Goji berries. Only fully ripe berries should be eaten.

• Height when mature: 6 feet
• Planting: Plant in full to part sun in areas that are wet but well drained.
• Water: Drought tolerant but will retain leaves all year when watered during dry periods.
• Soil: Keep moist.
• Zones: 7-10