Matrimony Vine, Lycium barbarum, also known as Box Thorn, is a deciduous, fruit bearing shrub or vine, growing to 2.5meters tall by 4meters wide. Original habitat is unclear but in all likelihood S.E. Europe to S.W. Asia. Lycium barbarum is catalogued both as a vine and as a shrub. Along with the better known tomatoes and eggplants it is a member of the nightshade family.

The branches of the Matrimony Vine are prickly, and tend to grow in awkward mounds. The plant blossoms in summer with lavender tubular flowers. Flowers are hermaphrodite and are pollinated by bees, followed by 2cm in diameter red berries with a mild sweet liquorice flavour produced in autumn. Fruit is consumed raw or cooked. When lightly cooked for 3 – 4 minutes can be used as a vegetable.

Matrimony Vine is an exciting choice for your edible garden. Many parts of the plant are eaten from the young shoots to the ripe berries, with the best output of young shoots produced in reaction to heavy pruning. Use of the leaves as food is well authenticated and fairly widespread in some countries. The unripe fruit might be suspect (belongs to a family that frequently plants and fruit contains toxins) though the fully ripe fruit is wholesome.

Plant propagation is by seed and germination is generally good and reasonably quick. Matrimony Vine is easy to grow; tolerating soils with only moderate fertility and a broad pH range can do well in full sun or part shade. It can stand maritime exposure. The plant needs regular moisture with good drainage. It is once in a while reported as invasive, when in a suitable position, so if you plant it keep an eye on where it spreads. The root system is extended and has been planted to stabilize soils.

Lycium barbarum is a member of the family Solanaceae the genus Lycium. When choosing a site to plant Lycium barbarum there is one condition if using it for landscape purposes. The Vine has a tendency to sprout from its roots.

Matrimony Vine, Lycium barbarum

Interested on Fruit and Nut Bearing Trees and Plants? Stay Tuned. There is Much More to Come.

The key to successful fruit and nut production is the provision of a beneficial environment for the trees that bear them.