Hortiforum

General Info – Indian Coffee Plum, Scramberry, Lubikka, Buah Kerkut

Native to the rainforests of South Asia, the Indian Coffee Plum produces a prolific number of small, red, Coffee-like fruits from which it derives its name.
The Indian Coffee Plum ripens to an attractive pink to dark red, similar in size to a Cherry and resembling a Panama Berry when ripe. The tangy, juicy fruits are rich in antioxidants and high in Vitamins A and C. Occasionally eaten raw but more commonly made into preserves such as pickles, jams, and jellies. They can also be added to juices and curries.
The Indian Coffee Plum requires a frost-free, tropical or subtropical climate and a full sun position. Plants are hardy to wind and drought. Preference is for a fertile loam soil and medium rainfall. They are partly dioecious, with some level of self-pollination in female plants, but the presence of both male and female specimens is greatly beneficial for cross-pollination and increasing harvests.
Plants can grow up to 10 metres tall, forming a medium-sized tree, or remain around 5 metres as a large, dense shrub. Young plants and new growth are spiny, making plants suitable for use as a protective hedge. The foliage consists of glossy green leaves, while small white flowers with a honey-like fragrance emerge in spring. A hardy and prolific producer of tasty, versatile fruits.

Plant Profile/Properties