Clinging Conifer

This small fruit tree grows up to 7 feet (2.1 meters) tall and lives for up to 35 years, with the oldest known specimen being around 54 years old. It is very susceptible to disease and insect infestation.

It has a stocky, wonky trunk covered in thick, rough, silver bark, and inside, the dense wood is pale brown-grey.

The numerous branches are very long, thin and wispy and are covered with large amounts of huge, needle-like leaves with jagged edges. The leaves themselves are found in green and grey varieties.

In early spring, it produces dozens of medium-sized, red blossoms with shield-shaped shaped petals. They are sturdy and have a faint scent that smells like old books.

In early summer it produces small, spherical fruit. The smooth indigo skin is thick and very savoury, and the crunchy lilac flesh is sour and oily. The lime seeds are large and are bunched at the bottom of the fruit.

The roots form a tightly packed ball, and overall the tree is sturdy and difficult to uproot.

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