[5] Sourplum fruits are generally sour, with a dry aftertaste, and contain significant amounts of potassium.

The tree, fruit, seed, leaves, and roots are all used for human consumption, medicinally, or for fuel.

The branches are either smooth or covered with flattened hairs and armed with spines at their bases.

[5] A related species, the yellow plum (Ximenia americana), occurs in western United States.

In the wild, it is found in woodlands, grasslands, rocky outcrops and sometimes termite mounds.

[6] More typically, it is put into cold water to soak, and then the skin and seed are removed by pressing.

[6] The chemical profile of X. afra leaf was comprehensively analyzed and led to the identification of 10 polyphenol compounds, including phenolic acid and flavonoids.

Further bioactivity investigations showed that extracts of X. afra leaves exhibit anti-oxidant, anti-proliferation, and anti-inflammatory activities.

The underlying molecular mechanism may partially be contributed by the inhibition of NF-κB activation, a shared signal pathway between proliferation and inflammation.

[9] The roots are used to treat abscesses, stomach aches, colic, malaria, coughs, and bilharzias.

[10] The ripe fruit has a high amount of tannins, leading to an astringent dry aftertaste.

The tree can be used as a natural fence to designate tracts of land or set a perimeter.