Kei Apple
Dovyalis caffra
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Description
Kei Apple (Dovyalis caffra) is a small to medium-sized shrub or tree native to southern Africa, thriving in arid and semi-arid regions. In agroecology, it serves as an excellent living fence due to its dense, thorny branches, providing a physical barrier and habitat for wildlife. It plays a key role in soil stabilization and erosion control, particularly on slopes. Kei Apple is a valuable component in food forests, occupying the shrub layer and offering fruits that are rich in vitamin C. It can be integrated into guilds with nitrogen-fixing plants like Acacia species to enhance soil fertility. Traditionally, the fruit has been used in local diets and for medicinal purposes, such as preventing scurvy.
Growing Details
Kei Apple thrives in full sun and well-drained soils. Before planting, enrich the soil with organic matter such as compost or well-rotted manure. Mulching around the base helps retain moisture and suppress weeds. Companion plants like marigolds can help deter pests. Avoid overwatering, as the plant is drought-tolerant once established. Harvest fruits when they turn yellow-orange and are slightly soft to the touch. Store in a cool, dry place for up to several weeks.
Tags
Hedge
Carbon Farming
Attracts Wildlife
Windbreak
Erosion Preventing
Visual Appeal
Easy Propagating
Range (Based on GBIF Data)
The map shows known occurrence points of <strong>Dovyalis caffra</strong> recorded in scientific biodiversity databases.
Source: <a href="https://www.gbif.org" target="_blank">GBIF.org</a> โ Global Biodiversity Information Facility
Location & Timing
native geo location: Native to southern Africa, particularly in re
applicable geo region: Southern Africa
language used: en
Flowering:
beginning
of October for 30 days
Harvest:
beginning
of January for 60 days
Seed Start:
beginning
of September
Indoor Start:
Transplant:
Uses & Benefits
Edible Rating:
(4/5)
edible uses: The fruit of the Kei Apple is edible and can be eaten raw, though it is often quite tart. It is commonly used in making jams, jellies, and juices. The fruit is rich in vitamin C, potassium, and other nutrients. It is best harvested when fully ripe to reduce tartness and can be stored in a cool, dry place for several weeks.
Medicinal Rating:
(2/5)
medicinal uses: Traditionally, the fruit has been used for its vitamin C content to prevent scurvy. Some cultures use the fruit for its potential anti-inflammatory properties. It is important to consume the fruit in moderation due to its acidity, which can affect sensitive stomachs.
health concerns: The fruit's high acidity may cause discomfort for individuals with sensitive stomachs or acid reflux.
other uses: The dense, thorny branches of the Kei Apple make it an excellent choice for use as a natural hedge or living fence. It can also be used for erosion control and as a windbreak.
Scientific Literature
Loading scientific articles about <strong>Dovyalis caffra</strong>...
Botanical data
specie: Dovyalis caffra
common names: Kei Apple; Umkokola; Kai Apple
family: Salicaceae
sub family:
tribe:
sub tribe:
genus: Dovyalis
Growing Conditions
area needed: 4.0 m
spacing: 2.0 m
growing difficulty: Low
Deciduous / Evergreen: Evergreen
Seed Temp (Opt/Min/Max): 20ยฐC / 15ยฐC / 25ยฐC
Plant Temp (Opt/Min/Max): 25ยฐC / 10ยฐC / 35ยฐC
water demands: Low
humidity:
light demands: High
root type: Medium
frost tender: Medium
hardness:
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(9/10)
first harvest: 3 years
life span: 50 years
succession: Pioneer
growth rate: Medium
max height: 6.0 m
max width: 4.0 m
soil preference:
Medium (Loam)
pH preference:
Neutral
flower type:
Dioecious
growth details: Kei Apple thrives in full sun and well-drained soils. Before planting, enrich the soil with organic matter such as compost or well-rotted manure. Mulching around the base helps retain moisture and suppress weeds. Companion plants like marigolds can help deter pests. Avoid overwatering, as the plant is drought-tolerant once established. Harvest fruits when they turn yellow-orange and are slightly soft to the touch. Store in a cool, dry place for up to several weeks.
Potential Disturbances: Kei Apple is relatively pest-resistant but can occasionally suffer from aphid infestations. Introduce beneficial insects like ladybugs and lacewings to control aphids. Planting garlic or chives nearby can also help repel pests. Neem oil can be used as an organic spray if infestations occur.
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