This large shrub to small tree has a greyish trunk with spreading branches that are armed with spines and form a rounded crown. It has a dark green pointed oval leaves and the tiny flowers appear in a cluster in winter, followed by edible purple fruit.

Hardiness zones 10 to 11 

Falcourtia indica is naturally found from Africa to Asia and has been introduced to Hawaii, French Polynesia and the lower North America growing in lowland moist forests or woodlands and grasslands. 

It prefers in an open sunny position but will tolerate part shade and grows in most well drained moderately fertile soils and is frost, drought and salt spray tolerant.

The Madagascar Plum is grown for its bushy habit and edible fruit. It is planted in parks and gardens along borders and is trim to form a hedge that acts as a pedestrian barrier due to its spiky branches. It is suitable to coastal and inland regions establishing in 3-4 years and is moderately long lived. 

It is also grown for its edible fruit that is used in jams or jellies and can be fermented to make wine. It is used in coastal gardens as a specimen and in some regions is regarded as a weed. ID 3282

Falcourtia (fal-KOR-tee-ah)  indica (IN-dee-kah) 

Salicaceae (sal-i-KAY-see-ee)
Willow and Poplar Family