Shrub
Carolina Wolfberry
Lycium carolinianum
Varieties We Carry
StandardLycium carolinianum
Sizes & Pricing
1 galFrom$9.95
Fresh this week. Last restocked Mar 9.
LightFull Sun
WaterLow to Moderate
Mature size4-8 feet × 3-6 feet
About Carolina Wolfberry
Christmas berry (Lycium carolinianum) is a Florida native coastal shrub with small lavender flowers that give way to vivid red berries ripening in winter. Its salt tolerance and wildlife value make it a staple of coastal native plantings. Starting at $9.95.
Plant details
- Bloom Season
- Summer, Fall
- Flower Color
- Purple
- Growth Rate
- Moderate
- Foliage
- Evergreen
- Soil
- Sandy, Loam, Clay, Alkaline, Acidic, Well-drained
Best planting months
Recommended forZone 9b · St. Augustine, FL
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This monthGood windowOther months
Seasonal care
Bloom season. Good planting window.
Bloom season. Handles summer heat well once established.
Bloom season. Ideal planting window.
May lose some foliage in cold snaps.
Care essentials
Light
Plant in full sun for best growth, berry production, and flowering. In NE Florida's coastal landscapes, this native excels in open, sunny locations with excellent air circulation. Tolerates light shade but fruiting is reduced.
Water
Low to moderate water needs once established — highly adaptable to NE Florida conditions. Tolerates brief drought (drops leaves as a survival mechanism) and occasional brief inundation. Water regularly for the first season; thereafter, natural rainfall is generally adequate.
Soil & Fertilizer
Highly adaptable to a wide range of NE Florida soils — sandy, loam, clay, acidic, or alkaline. Thrives in nutrient-poor coastal soils. No heavy fertilization is required; a light balanced fertilizer application in spring is optional. Excellent drainage preferred but tolerates periodic wet conditions.
Similar needs
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Common questions
Is Carolina Wolfberry a good plant for St. Augustine?
Carolina Wolfberry is a shrub for Zone 9b coastal Florida gardens, reaching 4-8 feet × 3-6 feet.
Care information verified from
Last reviewed February 2026. Our care guidance comes from trusted horticulture sources and decades of helping St. Augustine gardeners. Conditions here can vary dramatically from one area to the next, so come ask us and we'll tailor it to your yard.