Dovyalis hebecarpa (Gardner) Warb.

A large shrub. It grows 5-7 m high. It has many branches. There are long sharp spines on young plants. The leaves are velvety and pale green. They are 10 cm long. They have a wavy uneven surface. The stalks and veins are red. Plants are separately male and female. The flowers are green. They are in the axils of leaves. The fruit is small, dark purple and sour. They are 2 cm across. The skin is brown and velvety when ripe. The pulp is deep red and acidic.

A tropical plant. It grows in the tropical lowlands. It is native to India and Sri Lanka. It is a tropical plant. Plants can tolerate both dry and wet soils. Good moisture levels are important for good fruit development. It occurs naturally in Sri Lanka. It grows to 1,300 m above sea level. It does not do well in the humid tropics. It suits hardiness zones 10-12.

The fruit can be eaten fresh but are acidic. They are used in drinks and preserves. They make good jam. They are used to flavour meat and fish.

Plants are grown from seed. They can also be grown from cuttings. Because trees are male or female it is often best to graft buds of appropriate male and female trees onto the one rootstock.