Matrimony Vine: The Goji Berry Plant That’s Taking Over American Gardens
If you’ve been wondering about that sprawling shrub with the bright red berries popping up in gardens across North America, you’ve likely encountered matrimony vine (Lycium barbarum). This perennial shrub has quite the reputation – and for good reason. Let’s dig into what makes this plant both appealing and controversial for home gardeners.
What Exactly Is Matrimony Vine?
Matrimony vine, scientifically known as Lycium barbarum, is the plant behind those trendy superfood goji berries you see in health stores. This multi-stemmed woody shrub typically stays under 13-16 feet tall, with several stems sprouting from near the ground level. You might also see it listed under its botanical synonyms Lycium halimifolium or Lycium vulgare in older gardening references.
Originally from China and southeastern Europe, this hardy perennial has made itself quite at home across North America. In fact, it now grows wild in every U.S. state and several Canadian provinces, from Alberta to Wyoming and everywhere in between.
The Good, The Bad, and The Berry
Here’s where matrimony vine gets interesting – it’s both loved and scrutinized by gardeners. On the plus side, this shrub is practically indestructible once established. It thrives in USDA hardiness zones 3-10, tolerates drought like a champ, and produces those nutritious goji berries that birds (and health-conscious humans) absolutely love.
The flowers, which appear in summer, are small but purple and quite attractive to bees and other pollinators. The real show-stoppers are the bright red-orange berries that follow, creating a stunning visual display in fall.
However, there’s a catch: matrimony vine isn’t native to North America. While it’s not currently classified as invasive in our database, this plant has shown it can reproduce and spread without human help, establishing itself in wild areas across the continent.
Growing Matrimony Vine Successfully
If you decide to grow matrimony vine, here’s what you need to know:
- Light requirements: Full sun for best berry production
- Soil needs: Well-drained soil; this plant hates wet feet
- Watering: Drought tolerant once established, minimal watering needed
- Maintenance: Low maintenance, but can spread via underground suckers
- Pruning: Prune in late winter to control size and shape
Garden Design and Landscaping Uses
Matrimony vine works well in several garden situations:
- Privacy screens and natural barriers
- Edible landscaping projects
- Xeriscaping and drought-tolerant gardens
- Wildlife habitat gardens (birds love the berries)
- Naturalized or informal garden areas
The arching branches create an informal, somewhat wild appearance that works best in casual landscape designs rather than formal gardens.
Should You Plant It?
This is where things get nuanced. Matrimony vine offers real benefits: it’s incredibly easy to grow, provides food for wildlife, attracts pollinators, and produces edible berries. However, as a non-native species that readily establishes in wild areas, some gardeners prefer to stick with native alternatives.
If you’re interested in native plants that offer similar benefits, consider these alternatives:
- Elderberry (Sambucus canadensis) for edible berries and wildlife value
- Serviceberry (Amelanchier species) for berries and four-season interest
- Spicebush (Lindera benzoin) for wildlife habitat and fall color
The Bottom Line
Matrimony vine is undeniably tough, productive, and low-maintenance. If you choose to grow it, be prepared to manage its spreading tendency and consider the ecological impact of planting non-native species. Whether you’re drawn to the superfood berries or simply want a bulletproof shrub for difficult growing conditions, matrimony vine delivers – just plant it with your eyes wide open to both its benefits and its non-native status.
Remember, the best garden is one that reflects your values while supporting local ecosystems. Whether that includes matrimony vine is ultimately your call to make.
