Jacket Plum

(Pappea capensis)

Jacket Plum (Pappea capensis)

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Estimated Native Range
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Summary

Pappea capensis, commonly known as Jacket Plum, Indaba Tree, or Bushveld Cherry, is a long-lived, hardy evergreen tree native to the woodland savannas, bushveld, and riverine thickets of southern and eastern Africa. It typically reaches a height of 23-43 feet (7-13 meters) and is noted for its dense, spreading crown. The Jacket Plum produces inconspicuous greenish flowers on catkins, followed by furry green capsules that open to reveal orange-red flesh surrounding a single black seed. The fruiting season is from December to April, and while the flowers are not particularly showy, the fruits are quite distinctive and attract various wildlife.

The Jacket Plum is valued for its drought resistance and adaptability to different soil types, making it a suitable choice for xeriscaping and low-water gardens. It is also used ornamentally in larger landscapes for its attractive foliage and interesting fruit. In cultivation, it prefers full sun to light shade and requires well-drained soil. While it is not commonly afflicted by diseases, it can occasionally suffer from root rot if overwatered. The wood is hard and durable, utilized in making small domestic items, and the tree has a history of use in traditional medicine for treating a range of ailments.CC BY-SA 4.0

Plant Description

  • Plant Type: Shrubs, Trees
  • Height: 9-15 feet
  • Width: 9-15 feet
  • Growth Rate: Moderate
  • Flower Color: Green
  • Flowering Season: Spring
  • Leaf Retention: Evergreen

Growth Requirements

  • Sun: Full Sun, Part Shade
  • Water: Medium
  • Drainage: Fast, Medium

Common Uses

Bee Garden, Bird Garden, Butterfly Garden, Drought Tolerant, Low Maintenance

Natural Habitat

Woodland savannas, bushveld, and riverine thickets in southern Africa

Other Names

Common Names: Jacket Plum , Indaba Tree , Wild Plum

Scientific Names: Pappea capensis , Choritaenia capensis , Nephelium capense , Pappea capensis var. radkloferi , Pappea capensis var. radlkoferi , Pappea fulva , Pappea radlkoferi , Pappea radlkoferi , Pappea radlkoferi var. angolensis , Pappea radlkoferi var. ugandensis

GBIF Accepted Name: