Purplefruit Tree

This modest-sized fruit tree grows up to 20 feet (6.1 meters) tall and lives for up to 25 years, with the oldest known specimen being around 56 years old. It is susceptible to disease and destructive insect infestation.

It has a narrow, twisting trunk covered in ridged, silver and white bark, and inside, the very dense wood is pale yellow.

The small bunches of branches are short stubs and are covered with large amounts of large, asymmetrical leaves with smooth edges. The leaves themselves are green with orange tips.

In early spring, it produces many bunches of giant, subtle purple blossoms with 2 spiral shaped petals. They are hardy and have an overpowering scent that smells like fermented fruit.

In mid-summer it produces small, oval fruit. The soft purple skin is tough and edible when boiled; it is sweet, and the soft cream flesh is bitter and powdery. The crimson seeds are large 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 clear space between them.