Dovyalis hebecarpa (Tropical Apricot)
Botanical name: Dovyalis hebecarpa
Common names: Tropical Apricot, Ceylon Gooseberry, Ketembilla
Family: Salicaceae (Formerly:Flacourtiaceae)
Origin: South Africa
A small shrubby spiny tree to 15-20ft cultivated for its maroon-purple fruit with acid pulp tasking like gooseberries. Much less thorny than other members of the family. Grows very quickly under ideal conditions. Trees bear fruits in great quantities. Small juicy fruit to 1" around with brown to deep purple velvet skin and deep red acidic pulp, resembling small grape tomatoes in shape. The fruit is usually used in drinks, fresh, either as a flavoring for beverages, or in preserves. Fruits can be eaten out of hand but are usually not for the pulp is very acidic. Plants will tolerate dry and wet soils, although lots of moisture is necessary for proper fruit development. Fruiting occurs from spring to early summer. In some areas tree will bear multiple crops throughout the year. Propagation by seed. Dovyalis abyssinica has the color and flavor of astingent apricot, hence the common name. Cultivated hybrids available.
