Clinging Indigo Vine

This small fruit tree grows up to 6 feet (1.8 meters) tall and lives for up to 45 years, with the oldest known specimen being around 58 years old. It is very susceptible to disease and insect infestation.

It has a very thick, curved trunk covered in silky, burgundy bark, and inside, the light wood is pale yellow.

The numerous branches are short and thin and are covered with handfuls of giant, asymmetrical leaves with smooth edges. The leaves themselves are silver at the bottom and grey with bold purple patches at the top.

In early spring, it produces copious amounts of large, indigo blossoms with crescent-shaped shaped petals. They are sturdy and have the faintest scent that smells like sugar.

In early winter it produces , long, curved fruit. The leathery green skin is delicate and edible when cooked; it is sweet and salty, and the very soft green flesh is savoury and dry. The dull yellow seeds are tiny and are located in the centre of the fruit.

The roots form a tightly packed ball, and overall the tree is sturdy and rigid.

Forests of this species feature the trees packed together densely, with patches of undergrowth between them.