Christmas Berry 25G

Christmas Berry (Lycium carolinianum) – 25 Gallon Pot available in Jupiter, FL.

The Christmas Berry (Lycium carolinianum), also known as Carolina Desert-thorn, is a resilient, salt-tolerant, native shrub that thrives in South Florida’s coastal and inland landscapes. Belonging to the Solanaceae family and the plant class Magnoliopsida, this attractive and functional plant is a top choice for wildlife-friendly gardens, native restoration projects, and ornamental landscaping.

This deciduous to semi-evergreen shrub features silvery-green foliage, delicate purple-blue tubular flowers, and bright red-orange berries that appear from late fall through winter—hence the name "Christmas Berry." The fruit provides food for birds and other wildlife, while the flowers attract pollinators such as bees and butterflies.

Key Features:

• Botanical Name: Lycium carolinianum

• Common Names: Christmas Berry, Carolina Desert-thorn

• Family: Solanaceae

• Class: Magnoliopsida

• Pot Size: 25 Gallon

• Mature Height: 4–8 feet

• Growth Habit: Spreading, open form

• USDA Hardiness Zones: 8–11

• Flowering Season: Spring to summer, with fruit in late fall to winter

• Wildlife Benefits: Attracts birds, bees, and butterflies

Sunlight Needs:
Prefers full sun but can tolerate light partial shade. In South Florida, plant in a location that receives at least 6 hours of direct sunlight daily for best flowering and fruiting.

Watering Requirements:
Once established, Christmas Berry is highly drought-tolerant. During the first year, water regularly to establish roots, then reduce frequency. Avoid overly wet conditions, as the plant prefers dry to moderately moist soil.

Soil Preferences:
Thrives in well-draining sandy or coastal soils. Tolerates poor, rocky, or salty soils, making it ideal for beachside or xeriscape gardens. Soil pH can range from slightly acidic to alkaline.

Fertilization:
Minimal fertilization needed. Use a light application of balanced fertilizer in early spring if desired, especially in nutrient-deficient soils.

Pest & Disease Resistance:
Very low-maintenance and naturally resistant to most pests and diseases. Occasional scale or spider mite issues may occur but are easily managed with organic treatments.

Pruning & Maintenance:
Requires little pruning, but can be trimmed to shape or control size. Remove dead or damaged branches after fruiting. Its open growth habit adds a wild, naturalistic element to the landscape.

Why It’s Great for South Florida:

• Native to coastal Florida, adapted to salt and drought

• Provides essential food and shelter for wildlife

• Tolerates heat, poor soil, and occasional flooding

• Adds color and ecological value to native and sustainable gardens

• Suitable for butterfly gardens, pollinator habitats, and beachfront landscapes

Jupiter Farms & Nursery