Copperfruit Tree

This average-sized fruit tree grows up to 16 feet (4.9 meters) tall and lives for up to 40 years, with the oldest known specimen being around 67 years old. It is susceptible to disease and destructive insect infestation.

It has a branched, curved trunk covered in delicate, knobbly, silver and white bark, and inside, the light wood is dark brown.

The small bunches of branches are long, thin and wispy and are covered with small amounts of miniature, needle-like leaves with smooth edges. The leaves themselves are copper with cream tips.

In early spring, it produces several tiny, peach blossoms with needle-like petals. They are very delicate and have a mildly strong scent that smells like lemon.

In early autumn it produces tiny, stiff, pointed fruit. The clammy azure skin is thick and edible when boiled; it is sour, and the crunchy peach flesh is sweet and juicy. The intense green seeds are large and are scattered throughout the fruit.

The roots are shallow and grow straight down, and overall the tree is rigid and brittle.

Forests of this species feature well-spaced trees, with clear space between them.