Cockspur Thorn

Maclura cochinchinensis is a thorny, climbing vine or shrub. It grows 4-10 m long, and belongs to the fig family Moraceae. The fruit is a composite round fruit 2-4 cm across. It has a pattern of squares over the surface and is green but turns yellow-orange when mature. The fruit is sweet and edible, and the ripe fruit is eaten fresh. There are several very small seeds inside. It is native to Australia, and is typically found in subtropical, warm temperate, dry and littoral rainforests of NSW and QLD. It also native to tropical Asia. This species provides perfect protective habitat for small birds, of which there are plenty at this location. Birds also eat the fruit. PS: The thorns on the stem can be clearly seen, particularly in the last photo.