Gopher Apple (Geobalanus oblongifolius)
Regular price $49.95 Sale price $39.95Gopher Apple (Geobalanus oblongifolius) is a hardy, low-growing shrub native to the sandy soils of the southeastern United States. Known for its dense, spreading habit and small, apple-like fruits, Gopher Apple is an excellent choice for groundcover in coastal and sandy landscapes. This resilient plant is highly drought-tolerant and thrives in poor, sandy soils where many other plants struggle to survive.
Distinctive Features and Uses
Leaves: Gopher Apple has thick, leathery, oval leaves that are dark green and glossy on the upper surface, with a paler underside. The leaves are arranged alternately along the stems, creating a dense, bushy appearance.
Flowers: The plant produces small, inconspicuous white or pale yellow flowers in the spring. These flowers are typically hidden among the foliage.
Fruits: The shrub produces small, edible fruits that resemble tiny apples, ranging from green to pinkish-red when ripe. The fruits have a mildly sweet flavor and are enjoyed by wildlife, particularly gopher tortoises, for which the plant is named.
Ecological Importance and Uses
Gopher Apple is an essential plant in its native ecosystem, providing food and habitat for various wildlife, including gopher tortoises, birds, and small mammals. The dense foliage also helps to stabilize sandy soils, making it an excellent choice for erosion control in coastal and dry landscapes.
While the fruits are edible, they are primarily enjoyed by wildlife rather than humans. The plant's low-maintenance, drought-tolerant nature makes it ideal for naturalistic gardens, coastal plantings, and restoration projects where a durable groundcover is needed.
Quick Care Guide
| Plant Type | Perennial Shrub/Groundcover |
| Harvest Season | Late Summer to Early Fall |
| Mature Size |
1-2 feet tall, 3-5 feet wide |
| Soil & Moisture | Well-draining, sandy soils; highly drought-tolerant |
| Light Requirements | Full Sun to Partial Shade |
| Growth Rate | Slow to Moderate |
| Self-fertile | Yes |
| Zone Hardiness | Outdoors 8-11; Patio/Greenhouse 4+ |
| Propagation | Grown from seeds or cuttings, Gopher Apple is capable of establishing itself in challenging environments, with fruits typically appearing within a few years. |
Full Growing Guide
Climate and Soil Requirements
- Climate: Gopher Apple thrives in warm, temperate to subtropical climates and is best suited for USDA hardiness zones 8-11. It can tolerate high heat and is exceptionally drought-tolerant once established.
- Soil: Prefers well-draining, sandy soils but can adapt to a range of poor soil conditions. It does not require rich soil and can even thrive in nutrient-poor environments. The plant prefers slightly acidic to neutral pH but is highly adaptable.
Planting
- Location: Choose a location that receives full sun to partial shade. Gopher Apple can tolerate a range of light conditions but will perform best in full sun.
- Soil Preparation: Prepare the soil by ensuring it is well-draining. If planting in an area with heavy soil, consider amending with sand to improve drainage.
- Planting Time: Plant Gopher Apple in the spring or fall when temperatures are mild. If planting from seed, sow seeds directly in the ground in early spring. If using cuttings, plant them in the same timeframe.
- Spacing: Space plants 2-3 feet apart to allow for their spreading growth habit. Gopher Apple forms dense mats, so giving them room to spread will encourage healthy growth.
Watering
- Establishment Phase: Water regularly during the first growing season to help establish the roots. Keep the soil moist but not waterlogged.
- Mature Plants: Once established, Gopher Apple is highly drought-tolerant and requires minimal watering. Water deeply during prolonged dry periods, but otherwise, the plant should thrive on natural rainfall.
Sunlight
- Full Sun to Partial Shade: Ensure the plants receive at least 4-6 hours of direct sunlight daily. Gopher Apple can tolerate partial shade, especially in hotter climates, but full sun will promote the best growth and fruiting.
Fertilizing
- Minimal Fertilization: Gopher Apple does not require regular fertilization. If desired, apply a light application of a balanced, slow-release fertilizer in early spring to encourage growth.
- Frequency: Fertilize once in early spring, but this is generally unnecessary unless the soil is particularly poor.
Pruning and Maintenance
- Routine Pruning: Minimal pruning is required. Prune to remove any dead or damaged branches and to maintain the desired shape. Regular pruning can also prevent the plant from becoming too leggy.
- Maintenance: Gopher Apple is low-maintenance and thrives with minimal care. Mulching around the base can help retain moisture and suppress weeds, but the plant’s dense growth habit generally controls weeds on its own.
Pest and Disease Management
- Common Pests: Gopher Apple is relatively pest-resistant. However, it can occasionally attract scale insects or aphids. Use insecticidal soap or neem oil if infestations occur.
- Diseases: The plant is generally disease-resistant but can be prone to root rot in poorly draining soils. Ensure the planting site has excellent drainage to avoid this issue.
Harvesting Fruits
- When to Harvest: The small fruits are typically ready to harvest in late summer to early fall when they have turned from green to pinkish-red. They should feel slightly soft to the touch.
- How to Harvest: Gently pick the fruits by hand. They can be eaten fresh or left for wildlife to enjoy.
