Copperfruit Tree

This modest-sized fruit tree grows up to 16 feet (4.9 meters) tall and lives for up to 35 years, with the oldest known specimen being around 81 years old. It is susceptible to disease and destructive insect infestation.

It has a thick, crooked trunk covered in ridged, copper-coloured bark, and inside, the flexible wood is yellow.

The branches are tall, rigid and upright and are covered with handfuls of large, wispy leaves with irregular edges. The leaves themselves are found in intense purple, hazel and gold varieties.

In early spring, it produces copious amounts of large, amber blossoms with spiral shaped petals. They are very delicate and have a faint scent that smells like a man.

In late autumn it produces small, circular fruit. The waxy grey skin is delicate and edible when cooked; it is sweet and sour, and the crunchy dark grey flesh is sweet and oily. The blood red seeds are small and are scattered throughout the fruit.

The roots are thick and spread across the surface, as well as underground, and overall the tree is sturdy and difficult to uproot.

Forests of this species feature well-spaced trees, with the space between filled with undergrowth.