| Weight | 13 lbs |
|---|---|
| Tree Size | 3 Gallon Tree |
Out of stock
Original price was: $50.00.$1.00Current price is: $1.00.
Introducing the Velvet Apple Tree, also known as the Mabolo Tree (Scientific name: Diospyros blancoi A. DC.), a unique addition to your plant collection. This tropical and sub-tropical tree, native to the Philippines, is a slow-growing beauty that reaches heights of 30-40 feet, and even larger in its natural habitat.
The Velvet Apple Tree is not just an ornamental delight but also a practical choice. It serves as a windbreak and shade tree, and its timber is highly valued. The tree thrives in full sun and is cold-tolerant, with mature trees able to withstand temperatures down to 28°F.
The tree’s fruit is its crowning glory. The fruit, often referred to as a ‘butter fruit’ or ‘velvet persimmon’, is a velvety, brown-reddish berry that is as attractive as it is curious. The fruit’s skin is thin and densely coated with short, golden-brown or coppery hairs, giving it a unique texture and appearance. The flesh is whitish, firm, and sweet, with a flavor that hints at a banana-flavored apple.
Despite the strong, cheese-like odor emitted by the skin, the peeled flesh is free of this smell and offers a pleasant flavor. The fruit matures in about four months, with the season typically running from June to September. However, you may find occasional fruits on the tree at almost any time of the year.
The Velvet Apple Tree is a minor fruiting species, producing a fruit that is enjoyed by some, but may not appeal to everyone due to the strong odor of the skin. However, once peeled and refrigerated for a few hours, the odor dissipates, leaving behind a fruit of mild and sweet flavor. The ripe fruit can be eaten fresh, used in salads, or cooked in various ways.
In addition to its aesthetic and culinary appeal, the Velvet Apple Tree also has traditional medicinal uses. A decoction of the bark is used in Philippine herbal medicine to treat skin problems and cough.
Add the Velvet Apple Tree to your garden or orchard for a touch of tropical charm and a unique fruiting experience. This tree is rarely seen outside of rare fruit collections and was first introduced into Florida in 1906. It’s a truly unique addition to any plant collection.
Bring home the Velvet Apple Tree today and enjoy the beauty and bounty it has to offer!
SHIPPING
Carriers and Services
We ship all orders via UPS, offering Standard, Expedited, and Overnight services. Shipping costs and delivery times depend on your location and the selected service.
Winter Shipping Advisory
Cold Weather Alert: Tropical trees are highly sensitive to cold temperatures. During colder months, our greenhouses maintain warm, optimal conditions for growth, which makes plants more vulnerable to cold damage during shipping.
Recommendations: If temperatures along the shipping route are below 40°F, we recommend holding your order until it’s safe to ship. We will notify you if a delay is necessary.
No Freeze Warranty: We do not guarantee plants shipped during freezing conditions. Shipping in cold weather is at the buyer’s discretion and risk.
Shipping Schedule
Local (In-State) Shipments: Orders ship Monday through Wednesday to ensure delivery before the weekend. Most locations within the state receive deliveries in 1 to 2 days.
Out-of-State Shipments: Orders ship primarily on Monday and Tuesday to avoid weekend delays.
Packaging and Damage Claims
Plants are carefully packaged to minimize the risk of damage during transit. However, if damage occurs, you must contact us within 24 hours of delivery.
Submit clear photos of the packaging and the plant to southeden@outlook.com. Claims cannot be processed without photos.
Order Processing and Pickup
Orders placed before 5:00 PM are processed the same business day.
Local pickups are available between 10:00 AM and 4:00 PM on weekdays and are processed on the same day.
Returns
All sales are final.
Due to agricultural regulations, we cannot accept returns or exchanges on any items, including live tropical trees.
If you receive an incorrect or damaged item, contact us at southeden@outlook.com within 3 days of delivery. Claims must include clear photos of the packaging and item to be reviewed. We’ll work with you to resolve the issue as quickly as possible.
Thank you for supporting South Eden Edible Nursery! We appreciate your understanding and are committed to ensuring your plants arrive in the best possible condition.
