Dovyalis Caffra Shrub 20lt|
Common Name: Kei Apple

Full Sun
Semi Shade
Evergreen
medium Watering
Indigenous
Hedging Plant

Dovyalis caffra, commonly known as the Kei Apple or Kaffir Plum, is a small to medium-sized tree native to southern Africa. It belongs to the Flacourtiaceae family. The Kei Apple is valued for its edible fruits and is also cultivated as an ornamental plant.

Appearance: The Kei Apple is an evergreen tree with a dense, rounded crown. It can grow up to 4-6m in height and has thorny branches.

Leaves: The leaves are glossy, dark green, and elliptical in shape, with prominent veins. They are often serrated or toothed along the edges.

Flowers: The tree produces small, inconspicuous, and greenish-yellow flowers that are not particularly showy. They are typically dioecious, meaning male and female flowers are borne on separate trees.

Fruits: The Kei Apple is most known for its plum-sized, round to ovoid fruits, which are edible and have a sweet and tangy flavour. The fruits ripen to a yellowish colour when fully mature and can be eaten fresh or used to make jams, jellies, and sauces.

Growth Requirements: Dovyalis caffra prefers well-draining soil and can tolerate a range of soil types. It grows best in full sun but can also tolerate partial shade. The tree is relatively drought-tolerant once established, but regular watering can help improve fruit production.

Wildlife Attraction: The fruits of the Kei Apple are not only enjoyed by humans but also attract birds and other wildlife, making it a valuable addition to gardens and landscapes that support local biodiversity.

Uses: Apart from its culinary uses, the Kei Apple is sometimes used as a hedge or barrier plant due to its thorny nature. In some regions, the tree is also used for erosion control.