Native & adapted

Ceylon gooseberry

Dovyalis hebecarpa

Also known as Ketembilla · Kitembilla · Tropical apricot

A thorny shrub with velvety maroon fruit that tastes tart and fruity, like a sour plum. Useful as an edible security hedge.

EdibleFruitingHedgeThornyEvergreen

Landscape layersHedging · Understory

Mature size10–15 ft tall and 10–15 ft wide

Climate fitUrban core · USDA 9b–10a · Valley suburbs · USDA 9a–9b

Plant spacing5–6 ft apart for a hedge

FrostDamaged below about 28°F.

Special categoriesEDIBLE

Hardiness guidanceUSDA 10–11; damaged below about 28°F

Winter chillNone

Typical harvestMostly summer into fall.

Before you plant

These conditions determine whether it will thrive.

Soil chemistry

Tolerates many soils if they drain; add compost.

Required microclimatePlacement is part of the growing system.

Sunny boundary or fence line with some frost protection.

Right plant, right place

Sharp spines make it a strong barrier hedge. Keep it away from walkways.

Best regional fit: Urban core · USDA 9b–10a, Valley suburbs · USDA 9a–9b.

Light

Full sun to afternoon shade.

Water

Moderate. Deep water once or twice a week in summer.

Fruit set

Plants are usually male or female; a female needs a male nearby. Some hybrid selections fruit alone.

Harvest

Fresh when fully ripe, or made into jam, jelly and syrup.

Planting & stewardship