The Che Male fruit tree, also known as the Chinese or Mandarin Melonberry is similar to it’s relative the Mulberry, in that it’s not actually a berry but a tiny sphere like collection of tiny fruit. The Che Male is needed in order for the female to produce fruit and 1 male can pollinize up to 3 females. The Che Male makes for a beautiful ornamental by itself but has been known to produce a few female flowers that bear fruit. The Fruit of the Che is maroon in color and when ripe taste like watermelon with the sweetness and sugar content of a ripe fig.
Read more about this amazing Fruit tree in this article from the California Rare Fruit Growers,
Latin Name: Cudrania tricuspidata
Site and Soil: The trees are relatively undemanding, but perform best in a warm, well-drained soil, ideally a deep loam
Pollination Requirements: One Male is needed to pollinate up to 3 females. Males can produce some fruit.
Hardiness: The Che Male can handle temperatures down to -20º F.
Bearing Age:
Size at Maturity: 25 ft.
Bloom Time: June
Ripening Time:
Yield:
Pests & Diseases: No pests or diseases have been noted.
USDA Zone: Zone 5