Family: Solonaceae
Scientific name: Lycium ruthenicum
Common name: Black Goji berry
Origin: Central Asia

The Black Goji berry is a fairly rare species from the central part of Asia and is of the same genus as the well-known red goji berry. The small (1 cm), black fruits are packed with vitamins, minerals and antioxidants. They can be eaten when fully ripe, fresh, dried or as a tea. The species grows naturally in very dry areas and also occurs in the Himalayas at an altitude of 4000 meters. This makes the species very drought resistant, but also completely hardy. The stems of the shrub have thorns and eventually reach a height of about 2 meters. Trimming the plant is not a problem and the plant is monoecious, so 1 plant is sufficient for harvesting fruit. A sunny position is also recommended.

Sowing instructions: First place seeds in the refrigerator for a few weeks and then sow in seed and cutting soil. Keep the soil slightly moist at all times, after which germination usually follows after a few weeks at room temperature.

Sowing time: November - June
Difficulty: Intermediate
Minimum temperature: -20 degrees Celsius