Dovyalis caffra is a lovely evergreen fruit tree or shrub. Dovyalis caffra is usually 3-5 m in height, but sometimes reaches 8 m with a much branched crown.

It is a tree or spiny shrub of moderate growth rate that may be planted close together to form a good hedge.

Dovyalis caffra can be cultivated as a border or a screen, or used to form an impenetrable hedge around a garden to keep unwanted animals and people out. It will grow well in either full sun or light shade, and will also need regular trimming in order to maintain a good hedge.

The Doyvalis has spiny thorns which can form a secure barrier.

Creamy green flowers form in November to December. Male flowers are 3 mm long in dense clusters of 5-10 flowers. Female flowers are found in groups of up to three on stalks 4-10 mm long in leaf axils.