Description
Cliffortia aculeata (also called prickly cliffortia, among many other common names) is a species of Cliffortia native to South Africa. It is a deciduous shrub, growing up to 1 m tall, with pinnate leaves composed of 3–5 leaflets. The flowers are white, 1–2 cm diameter, with five petals. It grows in open forests, scrub, and grasslands.
Uses & Benefits
Cliffortia aculeata is used as an ornamental plant in gardens and parks, and its edible fruits can be used to make jams, jellies, and pies.
Flower, Seeds and Seedlings
The flower of Cliffortia aculeata is white, with five petals. The seed is a small, black drupe. The seedlings are thin and have a reddish-brown stem.
Cultivation and Propagation
Cliffortia aculeata is a small, evergreen shrub that grows in full sun to partial shade. It can be propagated by cuttings or seed. The plant prefers well-drained, sandy soils and is drought tolerant. It can be grown in containers or in the ground.