Russian Desert-thorn
Lycium ruthenicum, Solanaceae
Zones
5–9
Layer
Shrub
Lifespan
Perennial
Growth
Moderate
Guild Roles
ProducerWindbreakBeneficial Insect Habitat
Growing Conditions
Sun
Full Sun (preferred)
Water
Low (established)Moderate (fruiting)Moderate (seedling)
Soil pH
6.5 – 8.5
Tolerances
Drought
Frost
Heat
Pest Resistance
Disease Resist.
Companion Plants
African BoxthornLycium ferocissimum
Pollinator SharingWind Protection
Black SaxaulHaloxylon ammodendronWind ProtectionNurse Plant
SaltcedarTamarix ramosissimaWind ProtectionNutrient Accumulation
Fairy DusterCalliandra eriophyllaNitrogen FixationPollinator SharingBeneficial Insect Habitat
Alexandrian SennaSenna alexandrinaPest DeterrentBeneficial Insect Habitat
Sea PurslaneAtriplex portulacoidesBeneficial Insect HabitatWind Protection
Antagonistic Plants
Purple TomatilloPhysalis ixocarpa
Both Solanaceae family members may produce competing allelopathic compounds and have similar root zones, leading to competitive interactions.
Silver VineActinidia polygamaClimbing and sprawling species compete for vertical space and light access
Brewer's SaltbushAtriplex breweriBlack wolfberry competes aggressively with saltbush species in arid environments
Uses
Functions
Antioxidant BerriesWindbreakLiving FenceSaline Tolerance
Edible Parts
BerriesYoung Leaves
Medicinal Uses
AntioxidantAnti-AgingImmune Support
Common Questions
What zones does Russian Desert-thorn grow in?
Russian Desert-thorn grows in USDA hardiness zones 5 through 9.
What are good companion plants for Russian Desert-thorn?
Good companions for Russian Desert-thorn include African Boxthorn, Black Saxaul, Saltcedar, Fairy Duster, Alexandrian Senna.
Design guilds with Russian Desert-thorn and see companion relationships visually.
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