Ziziphus mucronata (Buffalo Thorn)


Botanical Information

FamilyRhamnaceae
GenusZiziphus
Speciesmucronata
CategoryWoody
TypeTree (deciduous)
OriginThe Buffalo thorn is found in sub-Sahara Africa, from South Africa northwards to Ethiopia and Arabia.

Details

USDA Hardiness Zone10a
USDA Hardiness Ref.
Canadian Hardiness Zone>9a
Canada Hardiness Ref.
RHS Hardiness ZoneH2
RHS Hardiness Ref.
Temperature (°C)(-1)
Temperature (°F)30
Height10 - 20
Spread3 - 10
GrowthMedium
Flowering PeriodSeptember

Description and Growing Information

General DescriptionThe leaves are simple, alternate and ovate. There are two thorns growing from the nodes, one facing forwards and the second facing the opposite direction. The bark is a reddish-brown colour.
ID CharacteristicOn the nodes of the tree there are two thorns while the younger twigs zig-zag.
ShapeThe crown of the tree is irregular.
Bark/Stem DescriptionWhen the tree is young, the main stem is green and hairy. The base of the tree is 40 cm in diameter. As the tree gets older, the main branches start to crack into small rectangular blocks, revealing a red stringy under surface.
Leaf DescriptionThe leaves are distinctly shiny, with three veins starting from the base of the leaf. The leaf's size can vary from tree to tree, but it has alternating, ovate leaves. The leaves turn a yellow colour in autumn.
Flower DescriptionThe green-yellow flowers are borne in dense clusters.
Fruit DescriptionThe fruit is a smooth, leathery drupe and is deep-red when in colour when it is fully ripe: when consumed it is slightly sweet.
Texture DescriptionWhen the tree is young, the main branches are hairy to the touch.

Photographs