Four Unusual Varieties in a Fruit-Lovers' Garden

Gardeners who love rare and extraordinary fruit show some of the highlights of their collection.

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Filed under: Fruit Plants, Gardening

Gardeners Robin and David Cole love rare and extraordinary fruit. When they're not at work, you can find them in their backyard, tending to their fruit trees and other garden plants. Here are some of the highlights in their collection:

The carob tree (Ceratonia siliqua) is a chocolate substitute. Because it's a legume, it also puts nitrogen back into the soil. This drought-tolerant tree can ultimately reach 50 feet tall. Carob is hardy to 20 degrees F.

Buddha's hand (Citrus medica var. sarcodactylus) is quite the conversation piece for its uniquely finger-shaped fruit. The fruit is valued for the fragrant peel and is great for making jellies or candies. This small tree is hardy to about 30 degrees F.

Sugarcane (Saccharum) is a tall grass with long, wide blades. The canes contain sugary sap that's processed to make sugar. Some species, including S. arundinaceum, are hardy to USDA Zone 6.

Blood orange (Citrus sinensis) produces tasty, dark-colored fruit. Take care to avoid spines when harvesting fruits. Use the fruit in salads or juices. This small- to medium-sized tree is hardy to 20 degrees F.