Lycium chinense

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Lycium chinense marnay 25 sept 2008

Lycium chinense, commonly known as Chinese boxthorn, is a species of flowering plant in the nightshade family, Solanaceae. It is one of the two species of goji berry, the other being Lycium barbarum. This plant is native to Asia, particularly China, and is widely cultivated for its fruit, which is used in traditional medicine and cuisine.

Description

Lycium chinense is a deciduous shrub that typically grows to a height of 1-3 meters. The plant has thorny branches and narrow, lanceolate leaves. The flowers are small, purple, and bell-shaped, blooming in late spring to early summer. The fruit is a bright red or orange berry, which is harvested in late summer to early autumn.

Cultivation

Lycium chinense is cultivated in various regions of China, including Ningxia, Inner Mongolia, and Xinjiang. The plant prefers well-drained soil and can tolerate a range of climatic conditions, from temperate to subtropical. It is often grown in orchards and is also used in agroforestry systems.

Uses

Culinary

The berries of Lycium chinense are commonly known as goji berries. They are consumed fresh, dried, or processed into various products such as juices, teas, and supplements. The berries are known for their sweet taste and are often used in soups, porridges, and herbal teas.

Medicinal

In traditional Chinese medicine, Lycium chinense berries are believed to have various health benefits. They are used to improve vision, boost the immune system, and enhance liver function. The berries are rich in antioxidants, vitamins, and minerals, which contribute to their purported health benefits.

Related Species

Lycium chinense is closely related to Lycium barbarum, another species of goji berry. Both species share similar uses and cultivation practices, but they can be distinguished by their morphological characteristics and geographical distribution.

See Also

• Goji
• Solanaceae
• Traditional Chinese medicine
• Ningxia