European tea-tree (Lycium europaeum)

Family: Solanaceae | Edibility: Edible (3/5)

Lycium europaeum is a deciduous Shrub growing to 4 m (13ft 1in). See above for USDA hardiness. It is hardy to UK zone 9. It is in flower from June to August. The species is hermaphrodite (has both male and female organs) and is pollinated by Bees. Suitable for: light (sandy), medium (loamy) and heavy (clay) soils, prefers well-drained soil and can grow in nutritionally poor soil.

Edible Parts & Harvest Seasons

Edible Parts: Fruit, Berries, Leaves, Shoots

Harvest Seasons: Early Summer, Fall, Late Summer, Spring

Flavor & Culinary Uses

Fruit - raw or cooked. The fruit is a berry about 8mm in diameter. Only the fully ripe fruits should be eaten. Young shoots - cooked. — Fruit - raw or cooked.; The fruit is a berry about 8mm in diameter.; Only the fully ripe fruits should be eaten.; Young shoots - cooked.

Habitat & North American Range

In Israel it grows in Mediterranean maquis, batha communities, and loessial wadis in the steppes areas. (Zone 8)