Dovyalis zeyheri is a resilient, evergreen tree of moderate size with spines on its young branches. It’s quite ornamental, showcasing captivating grey-green leaves. The Wild apricot has a unique feature. Sometimes, its leaves surprisingly give off a pungent smell, which is unexpected for a tree.

This tree is similar to the more well-known Kei-apple. Both have thorns but the Wild apricot grows taller while the Kei-apple stays bushy. D. zeyheri’s young branches are hairy with long, straight spines, which can grow up to 60mm long, making it ideal for security hedges.

The Wild apricot reaches heights of 2 to 8 meters with light grey-brown bark that roughens as it ages. It blooms greenish-yellow flowers from August to December, with male and female flowers on separate trees. Fruits appear only on female trees from November to May. They’re vibrant orange, soft, and velvety with green crowns at the base. Though sour, they make tasty jelly with a bit of sweetening. This tree is great for wildlife gardens; its thorns protect birds’ nests, and animals enjoy its fruit.

The Wild apricot is tolerant to moderate frost and drought, it can be planted in containers because its root system is not invasive.