Blackfruit Tree

This small fruit tree grows up to 9 feet (2.7 meters) tall and lives for up to 15 years, with the oldest known specimen being around 17 years old. It is very susceptible to disease and insect infestation.

It has a narrow, curved trunk covered in thin, wrinkled, black with white speckled bark, and inside, the very light wood is pale brown-grey.

The branches are tall, rigid and upright and are covered with small bunches of huge, wide leaves with wavy edges. The leaves themselves are found in black, cream and olive varieties.

In early spring, it produces a handful of tiny, hazel blossoms with cylindrical shaped petals. They are very delicate and have an overpowering scent that smells like new carpet.

In early winter it produces tiny, wide fruit. The soft green skin is thin and inedible, and the soft caramel flesh is bitter and sour and powdery. The drab yellow seed is large and is in the centre of the fruit.

The roots are shallow and widely spread, and overall the tree is sturdy, flexible, and difficult to uproot or break.

Forests of this species feature the trees packed together, with the space between filled with undergrowth.