Dovyalis hybrid (Ketcot, Tropical Apricot)

A hybrid between Dovyalis hebecarpa and D. abyssinica. It arose naturally in Florida, and in 1953 selected plants were propagated. A large shrubby tree with tall branches covered in deep green leaves and often with thorns. A velvet orange skinned, 2-5cm round fruit that look like a miniature apricot. The flesh is very juicy, acidic and somewhat like an apricot in flavour. Fruits are suited well to culinary uses such as chutneys. H 7m

Care: Plant in a well-drained soil in full sun or partial shade, and give a complete fertilizer. Heavy mulching during the dry season will help maintain the shrubs health and appearance. Remove branches with  excessive thorns, dieback or lateral growth to facilitate harvesting. Water regularly during the growing season, however mature plants do not require as much watering once established.