Plant Data

Names and Taxonomy

  • Common Names: Fremont’s Desert Thorn, Fremont’s Thornbush, Boxthorn, Desert Thorn, Fremont Wolfberry
  • Synonyms: Lycium fremontii
  • Family: Solanaceae (Nightshades)
  • Genus Information:

Habit and Size

  • Duration: perennial
  • Habit: shrub
  • Shape: round
  • Size: up to 10 feet tall
  • Stem: woody

Leaves

  • Color: green
  • Shape: round to oval
  • Edge: hairy
  • Arrangement: alternate
  • Leaf Retention: evergreen

Flowers and Fruit

  • Sex: monoecious
  • Flower Color: Purple, White
  • Flower Size: 1/8 inch
  • Number of Petals: 5
  • Bloom: Jan, Feb, Mar, Apr
  • Fruit: red berry

Habitat and Growing Conditions

  • Water Use: low
  • Light: parly shade to full sun
  • Soil: well drained
  • Habitat:

Distribution

  • Distribution: AZ, CA not Nevada
  • Seen: LV
  • Elevation: 3,000 and 9,800 feet (1000-3200 m)

Photographs

Fremont’s Desert Thorn (Lycium fremontii)

Clark County Wetlands Park, Las Vegas

Fremont’s Desert Thorn (Lycium fremontii)

Clark County Wetlands Park, Las Vegas

Fremont’s Desert Thorn (Lycium fremontii)

Clark County Wetlands Park, Las Vegas