Lycium californicum - California Box Thorn (Plant) Fire Spreads to form small colonies

Spreads to form small colonies

Cold Hardy to 15 degrees F Distribution Southern Western Transverse Ranges (northwest Santa Monica Mtns

It is found along the coast in sand dunes and windy bluffs

Also good for deserts and high elevations

Lycium californicum - California Box Thorn (Plant) Fire Spreads to form small coloniesBox thorn makes an excellent barrier plant due to its thorny branches. It is also a good bird plant, since its berries attract birds and the thorns act as a deterrent to predators such as the family cat. Plant Characteristics Family Name Solanaceae Species Name Lycium californicum Common Name California Box Thorn Plant Type Shrub Sun Exposure Coast Sun, Inland Sun, Water Requirement Low Soil Type Sand, fast draining Flower Color Purple, Violet,