Crimson Spikefruit

This average-sized fruit tree grows up to 16 feet (4.9 meters) tall and lives for up to 25 years, with the oldest known specimen being around 35 years old. It is very resistant to disease but is susceptible to destructive insect infestation.

It has a long and flexible, angular trunk covered in wrinkled, black bark, and inside, the very hard wood is pale brown-grey.

The branches trail down across the ground and are covered with small amounts of huge, slender, pointed leaves with smooth edges. The leaves themselves are crimson on the sides and lilac at the center.

In early spring, it produces handfuls of tiny, black blossoms with spear shaped petals with a tube-like floral cup. They are very delicate and have a delicate scent that smells like roses.

In late summer it produces , broad, flat fruit. The sticky muted blue skin is thin and edible when roasted; it is slightly spicy, and the soft crimson flesh is salty and sour and very dry. The lime seeds are small and are located in the centre of the fruit.

The roots are shallow and grow straight down, and overall the tree is sturdy and difficult to uproot.

Forests of this species feature well-spaced trees, with the space between them filled with thick undergrowth.