About Lycium afrum L.
Lycium afrum L. is a moderate-sized shrub that can reach up to 3 metres (9.8 ft) in height. It is heavily protected by straight, woody thorns. Its leaves are leathery and grow in tufts on short shoots. This species produces tubular purple flowers that are 12–20 millimetres (0.47–0.79 in) long, with flared petals that are roughly one quarter the length of the flower tube. Its fruit is a subspherical berry that turns very dark red when fully ripe, and ripe berries are eaten by birds. The safety of human consumption of this species' fruit has not been confirmed, although berries from other Lycium species are regularly eaten without harm by both humans and animals. Lycium afrum is native to the far western part of South Africa's Western Cape Province. Its native range extends from Clanwilliam in the north, south to the Caledon area, and west into the Cape Peninsula. The species has been introduced to Australia, where it is considered a potential invasive species that causes some concern. Australian government factsheets note that in Australia, Lycium afrum is an uncommon hedge plant, and it has only become sparingly naturalised in a small number of areas in Victoria.
