10 Dovyalis rhamnoides Seeds - Common Sourberry - Indigenous South African Edible Fruit from Africa

This is a spiny, evergreen shrub or tree bearing edible fruit. It is easily cultivated and attracts birds to the garden. Dovyalis rhamnoides commonly known as the Common Sourberry is an evergreen shrub or a small tree 1–7 m high. It has grey brown bark and is well known for the spines on the stem and close by the leaves. The plant is hairy when still young but leaves are glabrous or shiny later. Leaves are simple and oval shaped. The flowers are tiny creamy green and male and female flowers odccur on different trees i.e. the plants are dioecious. Male flowers are more attractive displaying many stamens. Female trees bear red oval berry fruits which are relished by birds. Unripe fruits are a shiny green before they ripen. Fruits are not produced each year. does not produce fruit every year. The plant can be used as a hedge or can be planted as a tree. Its fruits are edible and very delicious. They can also be used to make jam, jelly preserve, vinegar and brandy. It attracts insects because of its fruits. It also makes a good nesting site for some bird species as it has thorns that can help to protect the bird from threats. Its stem can be used as timber for craft work and agricultural implements. There is also evidence of it being used for medicinal purpose although its use is very limited.