DYNAMITE goji berry (Lycium barbarum)

Characteristics of ‘Dynamite’

• Botanical name    
  • Lycium barbarum ‘Dynamite’ (goji berry ‘Dynamite’)
    
• Hardiness/zone    
  • Zones 3-5 according to sources, with fairly good cold tolerance (≈ -28 to -30°C for some sources)
    
• Size at maturity    
  • Spans approximately 1.5 to 1.8 m high and ~1.8 to 2.5 m wide depending on the site, sometimes more in good conditions
    
• Exposure    
  • Full sun or partial shade. Full sun gives better results for fruit production.
    
• Soil    
  • Well-drained, prefers soils rich in organic matter. Tolerates average, sometimes drier soils, but no waterlogging.
    
• Flowering    
  • Small, mauve/purple/lavender flowers, often in early to mid-summer (June-August)
    
• Harvest    
  • Late summer to fall (≈ August to October depending on region); fruit ripens a little later than some other varieties.
    
• Fertility/pollination    
  • Self-fertile (self-pollinating)—no need for another plant to produce fruit.

Advantages and uses

• Highly ornamental: visible flowers and fruit, attractive contrast, interesting appearance in a garden.
• Tasty fruit: sweet and tart berries, good fresh or dried, rich in vitamins (C, B, E) and antioxidants according to descriptions.
• Good productivity: even on young plants, fruit can be obtained relatively early; but maximum production after several years.
• Tolerance: to cold, moderate drought, adaptability to different soils (as long as they are well-drained).

Limitations or points to consider

• Later fruiting: in some colder regions, full maturity may be delayed, which can be problematic if autumn is short.
• Does not tolerate standing water; roots may suffer in prolonged wet soil.
• The plant can grow to a significant size, so allow for space or prune it according to the space available.