Diospyros pallens

Family: Ebenaceae

What it is like

A spreading shrub. It grows 1-2.5 m tall. The leaves are alternate and narrowly oval. They can have a few scattered hairs on the midrib. The edges curl back. The flowers are 10 mm long and white. They hang down from the axils of the leaves. The fruit is a round berry. It has long yellow bristles.

Where it is found

It is a subtropical plant.

Countries/locations it is found in

Africa, Southern Africa

How it is used for food

The fruit is eaten as a snack.

Edible parts

Fruit

How it is grown

The fruit are ripe February to April in South Africa.

Its other names

Local names

Andja, Harib, Ibota, Khidomana, Latjane, Lethlaye, Mohlatso, Molire, Monkanku, Mothlatso, Mothlaye, Mpatlare, Mpeta, Omuriab, Omuriabandja, Umbongisa, Umqatuva, Xitomatomani

Synonyms

Royena ambigua Salisb.; Royena pallens Thunb.; and others