Kaffir Date, Kaffir Plum, Wild Plum

Frost Tolerance: Damaged at 30°F (-1°C)

Sun Exposure: Full sun

Origin: South Africa

Growth Habits: Small evergreen tree, 15 to 30 feet tall (4.5-9 m); grayish bark; bright green, alternate, pinnate, leaves, 9 to 13 sickle-shaped shiny leaflets, hairy when young, each up to 3 inches long (7.5 cm)

Watering Needs: Moderate water, needs summer water

Propagation: Seeds

The branches are brittle in heavy winds. The genus name 'Harpephyllum' comes from the Greek for 'sickle-leaved'. The species epithet 'caffrum' similar to the 'Kaffir' part in the common name refers to its geographic origin, although in today's RSA, it is considered an ethnic slur, and 'wild plum' is preferred as a common name.

Blooming Habits:
Dioecious. Small whitish to yellowish flowers. The fruits are dark red about an inch long, sweet but tart, with a thin skin, used for jellies.