The ‘Key descriptors for Docynia indica (Wall.) Decne’ consist of an initial minimum set of characterization and evaluation descriptors for this species. This strategic set aims at facilitating access to and utilization of these African indigenous fruit trees. It does not exclude the addition of other descriptors later.

Docynia indica (Wall.) Decne, also known locally as son tra or H’mong apple (Vietnam), dou-yi (China), pin-sein (Myanmar), Assam apple/wild apple (India), belongs to the family Rosaceae. The species naturally occurs at altitudes between 1000 and 3000 msl in Central and East Asian countries such as China, India, Myanmar, Nepal, Pakistan, Thailand, and Vietnam. It can adapt well in areas typically characterized by sloping lands and degraded areas, where it grows quickly and well. In recent years its area of distribution has increased, as it started to be used in reforestation programs. D. indica trees are semievergreen or deciduous. They are resistant to forest fires and can withstand extreme weather conditions such as drought and frost. Fruiting requires elevations above 1000 msl and cold winters.

D. indica is an important multi-purpose fruit tree species in agroforestry systems in the highlands. Its fruit is appreciated for its nutrient and vitamin C content as well as antioxidant properties. It also contains substances with high biological activity, which are used as herbal medicine. Fruits are often processed into products such as juice, wine, vinegar, syrup, jam, and preserved by drying. Its wood is used to make household tools and is a source of fuelwood for households. This species is an important tree in the forest and agroforestry systems in the highlands. The trees provide material for mulching, and they are used for soil protection, improvement, and reforestation.

Today, D. indica is increasingly recognized as an important source of income. Especially for small holder farmers, it provides an important contribution to their livelihoods and household incomes. However, there remains a big gap in knowledge of how the trees are planted, how fruits are best harvested, processed, and marketed.

This priority descriptor list which follows the international standardized documentation system for the characterization and study of genetic resources (Alercia, 2011), is expected to support studies focusing on genetic and morphological diversity of Docynia indica, conservation of its genetic resources, domestication and to increase production and use of its products.