Overview
Lycium schizocalyx C.H.Wright, also known as the Chinese desert-thorn, is a species of flowering plant belonging to the Solanaceae family. It is a deciduous shrub that grows up to 1-2 meters, and it has thorny branches covered in pale gray bark.
Origin
This plant is native to China, specifically in the provinces of Gansu and Shaanxi.
Common Names
Apart from Chinese desert-thorn, Lycium schizocalyx is also known by other names such as Gou qi zi, wild medlar, matrimony vine, among others.
Uses
Lycium schizocalyx has a long history of use in traditional medicine by the Chinese. The fruit of the plant is rich in vitamins A and C, beta-carotene, and antioxidants. The plant has been used to treat a multitude of conditions, including hypertension, diabetes, fever, and vision problems. The fruit is also used as a food ingredient to flavor tea, soups, and stews.
General Appearance
The leaves of Lycium schizocalyx are a medium green color and are ovate to oblong-shaped. The bushes produce small greenish-white flowers with five petals that bloom in June and July. The fruit is a red-orange berry, about the size of a raisin and is edible.
Light requirements
Lycium schizocalyx plants require full sunlight exposure to grow properly. They can also tolerate partial shade, but their growth may be affected, and they won't produce desirable fruits.
Temperature requirements
These plants prefer warm and temperate climates. The optimal temperature range for Lycium schizocalyx growth is between 15°C to 25°C.
Due to their hardy nature, they can also tolerate temperatures as low as -5°C and as high as 45°C. However, prolonged exposure to extreme temperatures may negatively affect their growth.
Soil requirements
Lycium schizocalyx plants grow well in well-drained, sandy, or loamy soil. The soil pH range, which they prefer, is slightly acidic to slightly alkaline, with a range between 6.0 to 8.0.
They can also tolerate salt in the soil, making them suitable to grow near the coast. However, waterlogged soil can lead to root rot and may cause plant death.
Adding organic matter to the soil can improve plant growth by providing necessary nutrients. Additionally, using a layer of mulch can help retain moisture in the soil, making it easier for the plant to absorb the necessary nutrients.
Cultivation of Lycium schizocalyx C.H.Wright
Lycium schizocalyx C.H.Wright is a shrub that belongs to the Solanaceae family. It is native to South America. If you want to grow this plant, here are some tips that you should keep in mind:
Climate: Lycium schizocalyx C.H.Wright prefers a warm and dry climate. It grows well in USDA hardiness zones 8 to 11, but it can also grow in zone 7 if planted in a protected spot.
Soil: This plant grows in any well-drained soil. However, it prefers a slightly alkaline soil. Before planting, you can amend the soil with some compost or well-rotted manure to improve its texture and fertility.
Sunlight: Lycium schizocalyx C.H.Wright loves full sun exposure. Make sure that it receives at least 6 hours of direct sunlight per day.
Watering Needs
Water your Lycium schizocalyx C.H.Wright plant regularly, especially during the growing season. However, avoid overwatering as it can cause root rot. Let the soil dry out slightly in between waterings. You can decrease watering during the dormant season.
Fertilization
You can fertilize your Lycium schizocalyx C.H.Wright plant annually with a balanced fertilizer during the growing season. You can also add some bone meal to the soil during the planting process to provide some phosphorus.
Pruning
Prune your Lycium schizocalyx C.H.Wright plant annually to promote bushier growth and remove any dead, diseased, or damaged branches. You can prune it in late winter or early spring before new growth appears. Use clean and sharp pruning shears to make clean cuts.
Propagation of Lycium schizocalyx C.H.Wright
Lycium schizocalyx C.H.Wright, also known as Schizocalyx wolfberry, is a member of the nightshade family Solanaceae. It is native to the dry regions of the southwestern United States and northwestern Mexico. This plant is valued for its medicinal properties and is widely used in traditional medicine for its anti-inflammatory, analgesic, and antioxidant effects.
Propagation Methods
Lycium schizocalyx C.H.Wright can be propagated by seed, stem cuttings, layering, and division.
Seed propagation
Seeds of Lycium schizocalyx C.H.Wright can be directly sown into containers filled with well-draining soil mix. The seeds should be sown about one-fourth inch deep and kept moist until germination, which can take up to three weeks. Once the seedlings have developed their first true leaves, they can be transplanted into larger containers or the garden.
Stem cutting propagation
Stem cuttings can be taken from healthy plants during the growing season. The cuttings should be six to eight inches long and should be taken from the current season's growth. The lower leaves should be removed, and the remaining leaves should be cut in half to reduce water loss. The cuttings should be planted in a well-draining soil mix and kept moist until they develop roots, which can take six to eight weeks. Once the roots have developed, the plant can be transplanted into a larger container or the garden.
Layering propagation
Layering is a method of propagation in which a stem of a plant is bent to the ground and covered with soil, where it will develop roots. To propagate Lycium schizocalyx C.H.Wright by layering, select a healthy stem and gently wound a section of the stem to create a wound. Bury the wounded section into the soil, allowing the tip of the stem to protrude from the ground. Water the soil regularly and wait for the roots to develop. Once the roots have developed, the new plant can be separated from the parent plant and transplanted to a new location.
Division propagation
Division is a propagation method in which a plant is divided into smaller parts, each of which can develop into a new plant. To propagate Lycium schizocalyx C.H.Wright by division, dig up a healthy, mature plant during dormancy and separate the root ball into several smaller sections. Each section should have a healthy stem and root system. Replant the new sections into containers or the garden and water them regularly until they become established.
Overall, Lycium schizocalyx C.H.Wright is a hardy plant that can be propagated by various methods, depending on the grower's preference and the availability of plant material.
Disease and Pest Management for Lycium schizocalyx C.H.Wright
Lycium schizocalyx C.H.Wright is a type of plant that is known for its resilience to pests and diseases. Despite this, there are still some issues that can arise in the care of this plant.
Common Diseases
The most common disease to affect Lycium schizocalyx is leaf spot. This is often caused by a fungal infection and is characterized by dark spots on the leaves that gradually get larger. If left untreated, this can cause the leaves to yellow and drop prematurely.
Other diseases that can affect Lycium schizocalyx include powdery mildew, root rot, and blight.
Pest Management
The most common pests that can affect Lycium schizocalyx are aphids, whiteflies, and spider mites. These pests can cause damage to the leaves, stunting growth, and spreading diseases.
The best way to manage pests on Lycium schizocalyx is to regularly inspect the plant for any signs of infestation. Early detection can make it easier to eliminate pests before they cause too much damage.
If an infestation is detected, there are several methods for preventing further damage. These include the use of insecticidal soaps, neem oil, or other natural remedies. Another option is to introduce beneficial insects such as ladybugs that will prey on the pests and prevent further infestation.
Disease Management
If your Lycium schizocalyx has already been infected with a disease, the best way to manage it is to remove any infected leaves or branches. This will prevent the disease from spreading to other parts of the plant.
If the infection is severe, then a fungicide may be necessary to control the spread of the disease. Careful application of the fungicide, and following the manufacturer’s instructions is essential for success.
Additionally, ensuring that the plant has good airflow and is regularly fertilized can help to prevent disease development.
Overall, Lycium schizocalyx C.H.Wright may be a resilient plant, but proper care is still essential to prevent the development and spread of diseases and pests.
