Goji (Lycium barbarum)

Goji Berry is a valuable addition to food forests and permaculture designs due to its nutritional benefits, ease of growth, and ecological contributions. Its berries provide a high-value food source for humans, while the plant’s flowers and fruit support pollinators and wildlife. The shrub’s adaptability to poor soils and resilience in harsh conditions make it an excellent choice for marginal areas or restoration projects.

Goji Berry grows as a sprawling, thorny shrub with arching branches. It produces purple, bell-shaped flowers in early summer, which give way to clusters of bright red, oval-shaped berries that ripen from late summer through fall. The plant’s deep root system makes it drought-tolerant once established, while its rapid growth and adaptability to diverse soils ensure reliable productivity. Pruning helps maintain its size and shape, encouraging better fruit yields

Size at Maturity- Shrub layer. Grows to 6-10 feet tall with a spread of 3-6 feet.

Current Size- 10"-16", 1 year old rooted cuttings

The Goji Berry has been cultivated for over 2,000 years, particularly in China, where it is revered for its health-boosting properties. The berries are rich in antioxidants, vitamins A and C, and iron, making them a staple in teas, smoothies, and dried snacks. In addition to its nutritional benefits, Goji Berry leaves are sometimes used as a vegetable in traditional dishes. The plant’s flowers attract pollinators, while its berries feed birds and other wildlife, enhancing biodiversity. In agroforestry systems, Goji Berry serves as a resilient, low-maintenance crop that supports both ecological health and economic resilience.