It is hardy in tropical to temperate climates in well drained conditions. Plants are usually slow growing and seedlings may take from 5 to 15 years to reach maturity. The stems are protected with vicious thorns, wearing gloves and long sleeves is recommended when harvesting fruit.
The fruit may be green, yellow, black, purple or red with green, yellow or pink pulp and has recently become popular as a gourmet bush food.