Copperfruit

This average-sized fruit tree grows up to 16 feet (4.9 meters) tall and lives for up to 10 years, with the oldest known specimen being around 23 years old. It is not very resistant to disease and destructive insect infestation.

It has a sturdy, straight trunk covered in smooth, mahogany-coloured bark, and inside, the very dense wood is white with black speckles.

The numerous branches are very short and thin and are covered with thick bunches of small, finger-like leaves with smooth edges. The leaves themselves are copper with cream tips.

In early spring, it produces a thick sheet of tiny, red blossoms with perforated petals. They detach easily and have a weak scent that smells like warm milk.

In early autumn it produces , long, curved fruit. The leathery violet skin is delicate and inedible, and the crunchy peach flesh is savoury and very juicy. The slate seeds are tiny and are scattered throughout the fruit.

The roots spread far and go deep underground, and overall the tree is rigid and brittle.

Forests of this species feature well-spaced trees, with clear space between them.