We are very excited to offer this unique species of goji berry. Black Goji is gaining well-deserved popularity as a “superfood” because of the incredible nutrient density of its fruits. The deep purple pigments cointain many flavonoids, including reservatrol, and a high amount of anthocyanins that give the fruit its deep black color. Bushes are compact, growing 4-6 ft. tall, with greenish grey fleshy leaves and thorny branches that get so covered in fruit that it causes the branches to have a weeping habit. Fruits can be eaten fresh, dried or made into a tea, where just a few dried fruits will turn the water a deep purple color. Black Goji is self-fertile but may set heavier crops if other Black Goji’s are planted nearby. Drought tolerant and hardy to USDA Zone 5.
Latin Name: Lycium ruthenicum
Site and Soil: Black Goji Berry likes full to half-day sun and well-drained soil.
Pollination Requirements: Goji is self-fertile.
Hardiness: Goji is hardy to minus 15° F. or below.
Bearing Age: 1-2 years after planting.
Size at Maturity: 6-8 ft. in height
Bloom Time: Late spring
Ripening Time: Late Summer through Fall
Yield: Up to 1 quart
Pests & Diseases: Goji is not bothered by pests or diseases
USDA Zone: 5
Sunset Western Zone: 3, 9, 14, 18-20
Sunset Northeast Zone: Not listed