South African Wild Plum
Estimated Inventory, lb : 0
Description/Taste
South African Wild plums are small in size, measuring 2 to 3 centimeters in length, and have a round to oval shape. While their overall appearance may resemble grapes, their actual size is more similar to a large olive. South African Wild plums begin as green fruits and gradually transition to a deep red-purple upon ripening. They also feature a smooth, taut, and glossy texture. The interior of the plum is reminiscent of a mango, with peachy-orange, juicy flesh encasing a large, inedible, stone-like seed. Although the fruit-to-seed ratio is small, the skin readily separates from the flesh, allowing for effortless preparation. South African Wild plums exude a sweet and fruity aroma akin to a traditional plum, a scent intensifying as the fruit ripens. This fragrance is laced with hints of peach and apricot alongside a subtle tartness that reflects the plum's sweet and tangy flavor profile. The taste is further enriched with notes of mango and passion fruit.
Seasons/Availability
South African Wild plums are harvested in the fall.
Current Facts
South African Wild plums, botanically known as Harpephyllum caffrum, are a rare species belonging to the Anacardiaceae or cashew family. As indicated by its name, this plum is native to South Africa, and the resilient trees are often seen adorning the streets of towns across the country. South African Wild plum trees soar up to 15 meters in height and boast a broad canopy, distinguished by their glossy, dark green sickle-shaped leaves interspersed with sporadic red leaves. The tree produces loose clusters of oblong plums, and these fruits are harvested for use in culinary preparations and medicinal practices. A wide range of eaters, including humans, animals, birds, and insects, enjoy South African Wild plums. Creatures like bushbabies, monkeys, baboons, parrots, bats, and African green pigeons all like to feast on the fruit. South African Wild plum trees are also popular with children, who not only like eating the fruit but also enjoy climbing it and building tree houses in its branches.
Nutritional Value
South African Wild plums are noted for their high fiber content, assisting in digestion and playing a role in regulating blood sugar levels. These fruits are a source of vitamin C, known for supporting the immune system, and vitamin A, essential for vision and skin health. These plums also provide potassium, a mineral that aids in maintaining healthy blood pressure and ensuring proper muscle function. South African Wild plums are packed with antioxidants that could potentially fight off harmful free radicals in the body, preventing brain cell damage. This protective effect is crucial for maintaining overall brain health. The natural sugars in the fruit can be transformed into glucose, a primary energy source for cells. South African Wild plums have components that promote cholinergic activity, which helps transmit signals in the brain and throughout the nervous system, potentially supporting cognitive functions such as memory and learning. The bark of the South African Wild plum tree is also used to treat skin conditions such as acne and eczema. The powdered form of its burnt bark is used to heal sprains and fractures.
Applications
South African Wild plums can be enjoyed raw or cooked, commonly prepared as jam, jelly, or chutney. In their raw state, the fresh plums can be used in cakes, pies, pastries, and sauces. Their tart flavor is well-suited for creating lemonade-like beverages when mixed with water and sugar. The juice from South African Wild plums can be fermented to create a distinct rosé wine, which is primarily enjoyed by wine connoisseurs within South Africa. These plums are mainly consumed in South African cultures and are not commonly used in cooking or cultural practices worldwide. The taste of the South African Wild plum is reminiscent of tart mangos and pairs well with other tropical flavors like bananas, coconut, ginger, orange, lime, jalapeño, and curry. Storing these plums requires consistently low temperatures to slow ripening and prevent spoilage.
Ethnic/Cultural Info
In certain South African regions, the wild plum tree is used in witchcraft ceremonies because it’s believed that the roots can purify individuals afflicted with paralysis brought on by evil sorcery. In these rituals, spiritual healers aim to tap into the tree's spiritual energy or seek assistance from ancestral spirits. Through infusion, smoke, or physical contact, the roots are used to relieve the paralysis or hex cast upon the affected individual. This cultural practice reflects a deep-seated faith in the potency of indigenous plants like the South African Wild plum tree to address both physical and spiritual afflictions.
Geography/History
South African Wild plums are native to South Africa, thriving in tropical and subtropical climates, and the trees need minimal water once they take root. The tree is favored for urban landscaping due to its ornamental appearance and drought resistance. These wild plums grow naturally in riverine forests from the Eastern Cape to Zimbabwe and are also commonly cultivated in Southern California due to their low rainfall requirements. Although the tree holds promise as a commercial crop, a trial planting in Israel produced disappointing results, shedding light on the challenges that have prevented South African Wild plums from gaining global popularity. These wild plums are commonly found in local markets and can be foraged from trees in South Africa. However, their availability is limited outside their native range.
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