Native & adapted

Kei apple

Dovyalis caffra

Also known as Umkokolo · Dovyalis

A tough, very thorny South African shrub with bright yellow, apricot-like fruit. One of the best drought, heat and salt tolerant fruit plants for Phoenix.

EdibleFruitingHedgeThornyArid adaptedEvergreen

Landscape layersHedging · Understory

Mature size10–15 ft tall and 10 ft wide

Climate fitUrban core · USDA 9b–10a · Valley suburbs · USDA 9a–9b · Desert outskirts · USDA 8b–9b

Plant spacing5–6 ft apart for a hedge

FrostHardy to about 20°F.

Special categoriesEDIBLE · ARID ADAPTED

Hardiness guidanceUSDA 9–11; hardy to about 20°F

Winter chillNone

Typical harvestSummer through fall, when fruit turns golden yellow.

Before you plant

These conditions determine whether it will thrive.

Soil chemistry

Tolerates alkaline, salty and poor soil.

Required microclimatePlacement is part of the growing system.

Any sunny boundary or fence line.

Right plant, right place

Will Kei apple grow at your Arizona property?

Long, sharp spines make it a serious barrier hedge. Keep it away from paths and play areas.

Best regional fit: Urban core · USDA 9b–10a, Valley suburbs · USDA 9a–9b, Desert outskirts · USDA 8b–9b.

Light

Sun exposure

Full sun, including reflected heat.

Water

Irrigation

Low to moderate. Deep water every 1 to 2 weeks in summer once established.

Fruit set

Pollination

Plants are male or female; a female needs a male nearby.

Harvest

How to use it

Very tart; best in jams, jellies and sauces, or eaten fresh with sugar.

Planting & stewardship

How to help Kei apple thrive

1
Plant at least one male among females.
2
Water deeply and infrequently once established.
3
Prune with thick gloves to keep the hedge in bounds.
4
Pick fruit when fully yellow and soft.

Read the horticultural reference ↗