Growing Guide: Kei Apple

Scientific Name Dovyalis caffra
Common Names Kei Apple, Wild Apricot, Umkokola
Family Salicaceae (Willow Family)
Origin Southern Africa (South Africa, Zimbabwe)
Plant Type Fruiting Shrub / Small Tree
Life Cycle Perennial
Food Forest Layer Shrub / Mid-Story Layer
Mature Size 6–15 ft tall (prune to shape)
Light Full Sun
Water Needs Low to Moderate; drought-tolerant
Harvest Season Summer to Fall
Time to Fruit 2–3 years from planting
Self-Fertile No (dioecious; requires male and female)
Growth Rate Moderate to Fast
Zones USDA Zones 9–11 with frost protection while young (can handle light frost and temperatures down to 24 degrees once established)
Florida Native No
Propagation Seeds, Cuttings
Seasonal Characteristics Evergreen; spiny branches, fragrant spring flowers