MISCELLANEOUS FRUITS 441 



tropics, but is not extensively cultivated in any region. It can 

 be grown in southern Florida as far north as Fort Pierce. In 

 California it has never been very successful. With protec- 

 tion during the first winters it may be possible to grow it in 

 the mildest sections of the latter state. It withstands light frosts 

 after it has attained a few years' growth, and is not exacting in 

 its cultural requirements. It grows on soils of various types, 

 and in moist climates as well as in those which are rather dry. 

 Propagation is usually effected by means of seeds. When 

 multiplied in this manner, however, many more male plants 

 are produced than are required for the pollination of the 

 females, and it is not possible to perpetuate choice varieties. 

 Vegetative propagation, most likely by means of budding, will 

 have to be applied to this species before its cultivation can 

 be made altogether satisfactory. 



THE UMKOKOLO (Fig. 59) 

 (Doxy alls caffra, Warb.) 



While its scented fruit is not of great value for eating out of 

 hand, the umkokolo, often called in English kei-apple, is a 

 useful and interesting plant. It is unexcelled for hedges in 

 regions where the temperature does not commonly fall below 

 20 above zero. 



The native home of the species is on the Kei River in South 

 Africa. It is a tall vigorously-growing shrub, with rich green 

 foliage and long, stiff, sharp thorns. The leaves are oblong- 

 obovate, about 2 inches in length, often in small clusters at the 

 bases of the thorns. Staminate and pistillate flowers are pro- 

 duced on separate plants, and both are without petals. The 

 fruit is oblate or nearly round, bright golden yellow, and about 

 1 inch in diameter. The thin skin incloses a yellow, melting, 

 juicy pulp and five to fifteen flattened pointed seeds. The 

 flavor is aromatic, highly acid unless the fruit is fully ripe. 



