Wild Apricot (Dovyalis zeyheri)

Wild Apricot

Dovyalis zeyheri

Its tart edible fruits bring foraged sweetness to arid landscapes. Evergreen shrub or small tree; common name: Wild Apricot.

Full sun
1–2/week
Moderate
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Plant Needs

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Sunlight Full sun to partial shade; tolerates intense arid sunlight with minimal leaf scorch
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Watering Water deeply but infrequently; drought-tolerant once established; avoid waterlogged soil
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Temperature Hardy to light frost; thrives in warm arid to semi-arid daytime temperatures
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Characteristics

  • Leaf: Small, glossy oval leaves with serrated margins; dark green above, pale green beneath
  • Flower: Inconspicuous greenish-yellow unisexual flowers clustered in leaf axils
  • Fruit: Round yellow-orange drupe with tart, juicy edible flesh
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Care Guide

Watering

Water every 7–10 days during active growth; allow top 5 cm of soil to dry between waterings

Fertilization

Diluted balanced organic feed once every 6 weeks. Use low-nitrogen feed to promote fruiting rather than foliage growth

Eggshell powder topdress:Crush dried eggshells into fine powder; sprinkle 1–2 tbsp around the base of the plant to boost soil calcium and improve drainage
Pruning
  • Thin overcrowded branches in late winter to improve airflow and light penetration
  • Remove dead or damaged wood to maintain plant health and fruiting capacity
  • Shape to desired hedge or tree form immediately after fruiting season
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Toxicity

Warning: this plant may be toxic.

Pets & Humans

Pets: ASPCA: No listed toxicity to cats

Humans: Edible fruit; no documented toxic effects from mature plant parts

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Garden Uses & Culture

Culture: N/A

Usage: Edible fruit used for jams, jellies, and foraged snacks; dense growth makes effective ornamental hedging