Hortiforum

General Info – Marula, Jelly Plum, Cat Thorn, Morula

Native to the picturesque savannahs and forests of Africa, the Marula tree stands as a commanding presence in any landscape, characterised by its thick trunk and expansive crown.
The fruit of the Marula tree are rich in Vitamin C, holds widespread popularity across its native habitat for its delectable, thirst-quenching flavour. Marula trees bear oval-shaped fruits, reaching lengths of up to 50cm, which ripen to a pale yellow-green hue. Ripening after falling from the tree, Marula fruit matures into a delightful blend of Mango and Guava, offering a harmonious balance of sweetness and tartness. These fruits can be processed into superb jelly or alcoholic beverages like Mukumbi, a traditional drink crafted by the Venda people.
Ideal for large gardens or properties, the Marula thrives in solitary conditions, yet requires another pollinating specimen in close proximity to yield fruit, given its dioecious nature (male and female flowers being borne on separate trees). Serving as a magnificent centerpiece, Marula trees are particularly well-suited to tropical gardens, flourishing in climates with distinctly seasonal rainfall and long dry seasons, shedding their leaves during dry spells to retain moisture. Marula broadly tolerate most tropical and subtropical climates but strongly favour frost-free climates and cannot endure more than sporadic light frosts. Resilient to drought, wind, and salt, Marula trees thrive in challenging conditions with minimal maintenance. The Marula tree impressively tolerates infertile, sandy, rocky, and saline soils, yet it thrives best in acidic soil conditions. Marula trees stand tall and handsome with their erect trunks and rounded crowns of dense foliage, typically reaching heights of up to 20 metres, although they more commonly grow to around 10 metres. The attractive yet somewhat inconspicuous red flowers are borne on relatively short inflorescences in comparison to relatives such as the Mango.
An ornamental masterpiece, a prolific bearer of rare and delicious fruit, and a low-maintenance inhabitant of seasonally variable climates, the Marula presents an outstanding option for those with ample space and suitable environmental conditions.

Plant Profile/Properties