Koshum: An Unusual Edible Shrub for Adventurous Gardeners
If you’re looking to add something truly unique to your garden, meet the koshum (Dovyalis abyssinica) – a thorny African shrub that’s equal parts intriguing and intimidating. This lesser-known plant might just be the conversation starter your landscape has been missing, though it definitely comes with its own set of quirks and considerations.
What Exactly Is Koshum?
Koshum is a dense, thorny shrub that hails from the highlands of Eastern Africa, particularly Ethiopia and surrounding regions. Don’t let its modest appearance fool you – this plant packs personality with its formidable spines and small, edible fruits that have sustained local communities for generations.
The Good, The Thorny, and The Tasty
Let’s be honest – koshum isn’t going to win any beauty contests in the traditional sense. But what it lacks in conventional charm, it makes up for in functionality and uniqueness. Here’s what makes this plant worth considering:
- Dense, thorny growth makes it an excellent natural security barrier
- Produces small, edible fruits with a tart flavor
- Extremely drought tolerant once established
- Attracts various insects with its small flowers
- Requires minimal maintenance
Where Does Koshum Fit in Your Garden?
This isn’t a plant for every garden or every gardener. Koshum works best in specific situations:
- Security hedging: Those thorns aren’t just for show – they create an impenetrable barrier
- Edible landscaping: Perfect for adventurous foodies interested in unusual fruits
- Mediterranean or xeriscape gardens: Thrives in dry conditions with minimal water
- Specimen planting: Use as a unique focal point in appropriate climates
Growing Conditions and Care
Koshum is surprisingly adaptable, but it does have preferences. This plant thrives in USDA zones 9-11, where it can handle the heat and avoid damaging frosts.
Ideal growing conditions include:
- Full sun to partial shade
- Well-draining soil (it despises soggy feet)
- Protection from hard freezes
- Minimal water once established
Planting and Care Tips
Getting koshum established is straightforward, but timing and preparation matter:
- Plant in spring after the last frost date
- Provide regular water during the first growing season
- Mulch around the base to retain moisture and suppress weeds
- Prune carefully (remember those thorns!) to maintain shape
- In borderline hardiness zones, consider container growing for winter protection
A Word About Native Alternatives
While koshum isn’t considered invasive, it’s worth considering native alternatives that might provide similar benefits while supporting local ecosystems. Depending on your region, native thorny shrubs like hawthorns, wild roses, or native barberries might offer comparable security benefits with added wildlife value.
The Bottom Line
Koshum is definitely not for everyone – and that’s perfectly okay! This plant appeals to gardeners who appreciate the unusual, don’t mind working around thorns, and are interested in edible landscaping with a global twist. If you’re in the right climate zone and looking for something truly different, koshum might just earn a spot in your garden’s more adventurous corners.
Just remember to wear thick gloves when working around it – those thorns mean business!
