Wolfberry – (Lycium fremontii)

Wolfberry: There are many different species of Wolfberry bushes in our region. They are all thorny, woody shrubs of varying ultimate size. Growth rate is moderate. Flowers are usually small (1/2" long) and pale pink to lavender in color. Flowering is sporadic throughout the year, usually in response to rains. Fruit is an orange to red colored berry from 1/4-1/2" long. The fruits are edible, tasting like a tart, salty tomato. In the fall flowers are a nectar source for both bees and butterflies, including the Funereal Duskywing, a skipper, Queen, and Monarch butterflies. The fruit, as well as the thick branching habit make the wolfberry an excellent bird-attracting plant. (Source: Arizona-Sonora Desert Museum)