Harpullia arborea

The tree’s origin lies in the more tropical regions of Asia and northern Australia. The tree is a dioecious, evergreen of medium to large size under optimal conditions. It has a smooth, gray trunk. Its canopy is very dense with a round to conical shape that makes abundant shade. The tree’s growth rate is fast, provided that it receives moderate watering until it is established as an adult. Afterward, it prefers watering to look fresh, but it can also withstand moderately dry conditions. Accordingly with its origin, the tree prefers a hot and humid climate and is very sensitive to extreme cold, but it can withstand rare frosts. The tree flowers in yellow-green clusters in spring, and afterward it bears beautiful orange-red fruits that give the tree an impressive appearance. The fruits remain on the tree for a long time (several months) so that the tree’s impressive and colorful look is preserved over time. The tree’s fruit is not a significant nuisance, and male cultivars bear very few. The tree has a non-invasive root system that does not interfere with paving. These properties, in addition to the abundant shade it casts, made the tree especially attractive for streets, gardens or patios. The tree is not common in Israel, and demand is not high, so a male cultivar has not yet been developed.