Origin and Common Names
Lycium pumilum Dammer, or commonly known as the dwarf wolfberry or tiny boxthorn, is a species of plant in the Solanaceae family. It is native to China and widely distributed in the provinces of Gansu, Ningxia, Qinghai, and Inner Mongolia.Appearance
This plant is a deciduous, thorny shrub that can grow up to 1.5 meters tall. Its branches are slim and flexible, intertwined with small spines. The leaves are narrow and elliptic, about 1 to 3 cm in length, and have a light green hue. The flowers are pale purple, with a star-shape corolla, and are about 1 cm in diameter. The fruits are small, red berries, which are about 1 cm long.Uses
Lycium pumilum Dammer is an important medicinal plant in traditional Chinese medicine. The fruits and roots of this plant are frequently used to treat various diseases, such as liver and kidney deficiencies, hypertension, diabetes, and cervical spondylosis. Additionally, the fruits are edible and can be eaten raw, cooked, or made into a tea. Nowadays, people use dwarf wolfberry as a rootstock for Lycium barbarum L., which is a more commercially valuable species.Light Requirements
Lycium pumilum Dammer is a small, moderately drought-tolerant shrub that prefers full sun, meaning it needs at least six hours of direct sunlight daily to grow to its full potential. It can tolerate partial shade, but it may slow down its growth rate and produce fewer flowers and fruits.
Temperature Requirements
Lycium pumilum Dammer thrives in hot and dry environments. It grows best in USDA hardiness zones 7-10, where the average annual temperature ranges from 40-90°F (4-32°C). It can survive occasional frost but may suffer from prolonged freezes. It has low to moderate water needs and can withstand drought but may require irrigation during prolonged periods of heat and drought.
Soil Requirements
Lycium pumilum Dammer prefers well-drained soils, including sandy or rocky soils. It can grow in a range of soil types, from acidic to alkaline, but it prefers neutral to slightly alkaline soils (pH 7-8). The optimal soil texture is coarse with good water-holding capacity, as it allows water to infiltrate and drain freely, preventing waterlogs or root rot. The plant is moderately tolerant of salts and can grow in moderately saline soils.
Cultivation Methods
Lycium pumilum Dammer, also known as the dwarf wolfberry, is a hardy plant that is generally easy to cultivate. The plant prefers well-draining soil and full sunlight, although it can also tolerate partial shade. Lycium pumilum Dammer can be propagated via seed or cuttings. If using seeds, they should be sown in the fall in a well-prepared seedbed. Cuttings, on the other hand, should be taken in the summer and planted in a mixture of sand and peat moss.
Watering Needs
Watering requirements for Lycium pumilum Dammer are moderate. The plants need to be watered regularly, especially during the growing season and long dry spells. However, it is essential to avoid overwatering as the plant can quickly develop root rot or other problems. The best way to water the plant is by soaking the soil to a depth of 6 inches, then allowing the soil to partly dry out before watering again.
Fertilization
Lycium pumilum Dammer plants do not need much fertilization. However, adding a balanced fertilizer once a year during the plant's growing season can enhance growth and fruit production. It is best to apply fertilizer during the spring and mix it into the topsoil around the plant's base. The recommended ratio of the fertilizer is 10-10-10, but any balanced fertilizer will suffice.
Pruning
Pruning Lycium pumilum Dammer is rarely required. However, if pruning for shaping or the removal of dead or damaged wood is necessary, pruning should be done in early spring before new growth emerges. Using sterilized pruning shears, remove the damaged or dead branches at the base of the plant. For shaping, remove the desired branches or stem. Always ensure the pruning tool used is clean and sharp.
Propagation of Lycium pumilum Dammer
Lycium pumilum Dammer, also known as dwarf boxthorn, is a hardy and drought-tolerant plant that is native to the Australian outback. It is an excellent choice for gardeners looking for a low-maintenance ornamental plant that can thrive in harsh conditions. Propagation of Lycium pumilum Dammer can be achieved through several methods:
Seed Propagation
Propagation of Lycium pumilum Dammer through seeds is the most common method. The seeds are small and should be sown in a well-drained potting mixture. It is recommended to soak the seeds overnight in water before planting to soften the thick seed coat and increase germination rates. Once planted, the seeds should be kept moist, and germination should occur within 2-3 weeks. After germination, the seedlings can be transplanted into individual containers or directly into the garden.
Cuttings Propagation
Propagation of Lycium pumilum Dammer through stem cuttings can also be successful. Cuttings should be taken in the spring or summer from the current year's growth. Cuttings should be around 10-12 cm in length and should have at least 3-4 leaves. The bottom of the cutting should be dipped in rooting hormone and inserted into a well-draining potting mix. The cutting should be kept moist and should root in about 1-2 months. Once rooted, the cutting can be transplanted into individual containers or directly into the garden.
Division Propagation
Propagation of Lycium pumilum Dammer through division is used to propagate mature plants. The plant should be dug up, and the root ball should be separated into smaller pieces. Each piece should have several stems and some root material. The divided plants should be transplanted into individual containers or directly into the garden. This method is less common than seed or cutting propagation but is a useful technique for maintaining established clumps of Lycium pumilum Dammer plants.
Disease and Pest Management for Lycium pumilum Dammer
Lycium pumilum Dammer, also known as the dwarf boxthorn or the creeping wolfberry, usually grows well in hot, dry climates. However, like other plants, it can be affected by pests and diseases that can damage or kill the plant if left uncontrolled.
Common Diseases
One of the common diseases that affect the Lycium pumilum Dammer plant is powdery mildew. This is a fungal disease that causes a white, powdery coating on the leaves, stems, and flowers. To manage this disease, it is recommended to plant the Lycium pumilum Dammer in a well-draining site with good air circulation. In case of severe infestations, you can use a fungicide that is labeled for this use and apply it according to the instructions on the label.
Another disease that can affect this plant is leaf spot. This disease manifests as small, circular brown or black spots on the leaves that may spread and cause defoliation. The best way to manage this disease is to remove and dispose of the infected leaves. You can also use a fungicide to control the spread of the disease.
Common Pests
Spider mites are common pests that can infest Lycium pumilum Dammer. They usually feed on the undersides of the leaves, causing yellow spots and webs. To control these pests, ensure that you maintain a humid environment and spray the plant regularly with water to remove the spider mites. You can also use an insecticidal soap or a miticide to control the infestation.
Whiteflies can also attack Lycium pumilum Dammer. They are usually found on the undersides of leaves and can cause yellowing and curling of the leaves. To manage these pests, you can use sticky traps or vacuum them off the plant. There are also insecticides that can be used to control whiteflies.
Conclusion
Proper disease and pest management is crucial for the healthy growth and development of Lycium pumilum Dammer. Ensure that you monitor your plant regularly for any signs of disease or pest infestation and take appropriate measures to manage them. By following these tips, you can keep your Lycium pumilum Dammer plant healthy and thriving.
