Nylandtia spinosa

Also Known As

Tortoise Berry

Plant type

shrub, fruit / vegetable

size

H: 3'
W: 3'

planting zones

9a-11

More Options

Nylandtia spinosa plant details

Nylandtia spinosa is a broadleaf evergreen fruit / vegetable or shrub with green foliage. In fall, spring and winter pink and purple flowers emerge followed by red fruit. Attracts birds. Grows well with sun and regular - low water. Drought tolerant once established. Does well in average and well-drained soil. A good option if you're seeking something seaside / salt tolerant.

CHARACTERISTICS OF Nylandtia spinosa

Plant type: fruit / vegetable or shrub
Plant family: polygalaceae
Foliage: evergreen green
Mature size: 3 FT wide, 3 FT tall
Flowers: pink and purple blooms in fall, spring and winter
Uses: edible, long-blooming, tropical-looking, winter interest, year round interest

GROWING CONDITIONS for Nylandtia spinosa

USDA Zones: 9a - 11
Sun exposure: sun
Watering frequency: regular - low
Resistant to: deer, seaside / salt
Soil needs: average and well-drained

Nursery contributed plant descriptions

Nifty Nylandtia! When I first Googled this spiny stiff shrub I was not expecting profuse orchid-like pink flowers. But that is what you get when this odd shrub goes into bloom. Plus it produces edible fruit! Forming a shrub that is 3’ tall & wide & blooming for a long time (Fall-Spring) this plant gets literally covered in pink flowers. They develop into red fruit that are rich in Vitamin C & are apparently quite thirst quenching. Native to South Africa, the fruits of this shrub are enjoyed by tortoises & birds there. One can also chew a small amount of fermented leaves to aid in sleeplessness & a tea can be made from the leaves as a bitter digestive. Favors coastal locales & is drought tolerant. Deer resistant.