Anderson’s Boxthorn

(Lycium andersonii)

Anderson’s Boxthorn (Lycium andersonii)

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Estimated Native Range
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Summary

Lycium andersonii, commonly known as Anderson’s Boxthorn or Water Jacket, is a deciduous shrub native to arid habitats such as desert washes, slopes, and mesas in the Southwestern United States, California, and Northwestern Mexico. It typically grows up to 2.7 meters (8 ft 10 in) in height and is characterized by a rounded shape with many branches covered in thin spines up to 2 centimeters (0.79 in) long. The leaves are flat, thick, fleshy, and measure up to 1.7 centimeters (0.67 in) long, adapted to conserve water and are shed during dry conditions. The flowers are funnel-shaped with white or purple-tinged corollas up to a centimeter long, blooming in the spring and are moderately showy. The fruit is a red or orange berry, less than a centimeter long, which may attract birds and other wildlife.

Anderson’s Boxthorn is valued for its drought tolerance and ability to thrive in harsh desert environments, making it suitable for xeriscaping and naturalistic plantings in arid regions. It is also used for erosion control due to its extensive root system. In cultivation, it requires full sun, minimal water once established, and well-draining soil. While it is not commonly used in ornamental horticulture, its unique appearance and low maintenance requirements can make it an interesting addition to rock gardens or desert landscapes. Care should be taken when handling or planting due to its spiny branches. There are no significant disease problems, but overwatering can lead to root rot.CC BY-SA 4.0

Plant Description

  • Plant Type: Shrub
  • Height: 3-9 feet
  • Width: 1-2 feet
  • Growth Rate: Moderate, Rapid
  • Flower Color: Purple, White
  • Flowering Season: Spring
  • Leaf Retention: Deciduous

Growth Requirements

  • Sun: Full Sun
  • Water: Low
  • Drainage: Medium, Fast

Common Uses

Bee Garden, Bird Garden, Butterfly Garden, Deer Resistant, Edible*Disclaimer: Easyscape's listed plant edibility is for informational use. Always verify the safety and proper identification of any plant before consumption., Erosion Control, Hummingbird Garden, Low Maintenance, Salt Tolerant

Natural Habitat

Native to desert washes, slopes, and mesas in the Southwestern United States and Northwestern Mexico

Other Names

Common Names: Water-Jacket, Redberry Desert-Thorn, Anderson Thornbush, Anderson’s Desert Thorn, Anderson Boxthorn, Anderson Lycium, Anderson Wolfberry, Squawberry, Anderson Wolfberry, Anderson’s Wolfberry

Scientific Names: , Lycium andersonii, Lycium andersonii var. andersonii, Lycium andersonii subsp. wrightii, Lycium berlandieri var. andersonii,

GBIF Accepted Name: Lycium andersonii A.Gray