Mzansi’s hidden gem: Kei apples are a nutritional powerhouse

South Africa has many indigenous produce and kei apples are one of them. Their value goes beyond their deliciousness and nutrition and they have earned their place as a unique and valuable fruit that can also act as a natural security fence.

Attaqua Williams from Johannesburg says kei apples are indigenous to Southern Africa and are known by different names, including putukila, umqokolo, umkokola, kau apple, kayaba, and wild apricot. She says these names stem from its indigenous roots at the Kei River in the Eastern Cape. 

“Kei apples serve as part of the importance of indigenous food to the African digestive system. They have become my newest health supplement because they are very rich in vitamin C, calcium, magnesium, iron, potassium, antioxidants, and dietary fibre. It fights inflammation and strengthens the immune system,” says Williams.

Watching it grow

“I planted a seed 25 years ago. The tree grew but only had fruits last year for the first time. They are indigenous, so there is no need to take care of them. They grow naturally, without intervention,” Williams explains.

For Adèle Groenewald, the owner of Beaudele On The Farm in Cape Town, her journey with kei apples began three years ago upon moving to a smallholding that had kei apple trees. She highlights that these intriguing trees with yellow, not-so-num-looking fruits piqued her curiosity, and she discovered it was our very own indigenous treasure, the kei apple! 

“We heard many people say that it is a good tree to have as a security fence as it has these long, sharp thorns and can be cut into a hedge. I also saw that you can eat the fruit, so I started reading up more and decided to grow my own from seed, especially for fencing. I also make jam and chutney from it,” she says.

Many different uses

“The main use of kei apples is for security fencing due to the long, sharp thorns and their quick growth rate. It can be cut into a hedge for a windbreak or landscape feature. Other than eating it, the fruit would definitely work as a colour dye, as it stains one’s hands when working with it.

“The leaves can be used as fodder, and fallen, dead leaves will be a great addition to your compost heap. Baboons, monkeys, and antelopes also like the fruit,” Groenewald explains.

Initially drawn to their potential as a security fence, she says they also serve as an immune booster due to the vitamin C and antioxidants. Kei apples are very high in pectin and therefore make a great jam, which she has also started producing and selling.

“Kei apples are very rich in vitamin C and antioxidants. When eaten raw, it is very sour, so it is not everyone’s taste. That is why most people will add sugar or make jam. Even the jam is more sour. It is very delicious when added to meat dishes like a carrot stew.

“Kei apples go very ripe within a day or two and are therefore not a fruit you’ll find easily on a shop shelf.” 

Ins and outs of kei apple trees

Groenewald adds that kei apples are fast growers and grow about 600mm per year. Therefore, they produce fruit much quicker than a normal fruit tree.

“We bought a few 1 to 2-year-old kei apple trees in 4L bags, and two years later they produced fruit. They also have male and female trees and only the female bears fruit. Male trees form dense clusters of flowers and attract a lot of bees, which helps with pollination. The female tree has only a few flowers on a stalk. Both are needed for pollination and fruit-bearing.”

Dietitian Kulani Mtileni from Limpopo confirms that kei apples are not just aesthetically pleasing, but they pack a powerful punch of vitamin C and antioxidants, offering a natural immune boost. 

“Kei apples offer a unique blend of essential nutrients, antioxidants, and fibre, making them a valuable addition to a healthy diet. These powerful antioxidant helps to reduce inflammation, strengthen the immune system, promote collagen production for healthy skin and joints, and combat free radicals that damage cells.”

However, he adds that it is always advised to consult your healthcare provider before incorporating something new into your diet, especially if you have any pre-existing conditions.

Because their high pectin content makes them a jam-making champion, resulting in delicious and unique spreads, Groenewald shares an easy jam recipe from kei apples.

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