Copperleaf Tree

This average-sized fruit tree grows up to 16 feet (4.9 meters) tall and lives for up to 35 years, with the oldest known specimen being around 48 years old. It is very resistant to disease and destructive insect infestation.

It has a wide, straight trunk covered in fine, ridged, copper-coloured bark, and inside, the flexible wood is pale brown.

The branches trail down to the ground and are covered with very large amounts of miniature, circular leaves with smooth edges. The leaves themselves are either peach, or lilac with lime edges.

In early spring, it produces large amounts of medium-sized, green blossoms with finger-like petals with a bell-shaped floral cup. They are very delicate and have a scent that varies in strength that smells like musk.

In mid-autumn it produces small, long, curved fruit. The fuzzy bronze skin is peel-able and edible when cooked; it is savoury, and the slightly crunchy lilac flesh is sour and dry. The hazel seeds are large and are scattered throughout the fruit.

The roots spread far and go deep underground, and overall the tree is sturdy and rigid.

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