Carissa Macrocarpa

• Botanical Name: Carissa macrocarpa
• Common Name: Natal Plum
• Mature Height: 4-6 feet (1.2-1.8 meters) as a shrub, up to 10 feet as a small tree
• Mature Spread: 4-6 feet (1.2-1.8 meters)
• Growth Rate: Slow to moderate
• Light Requirements: Full sun to partial shade
• Soil Requirements: Well-draining soil; tolerates a range of soil types including sandy and rocky soils
• Water Needs: Low to moderate; drought-tolerant once established
• Foliage: Evergreen, glossy dark green leaves with a leathery texture
• Flowers: Fragrant white or pink star-shaped flowers, blooming from spring to summer
• Fruit: Edible red to purple berries, typically ripening in late summer to fall

Uses:

• Hedges and Screens: Ideal for creating dense hedges or privacy screens due to its compact growth and thorny branches.
• Specimen Plant: Can be used as a specimen plant in gardens or landscapes, adding visual interest and texture.
• Container Gardening: Suitable for container gardening, where it can be grown as a small tree or large shrub.
• Edible Fruit: The tart, edible fruit can be eaten fresh or used in jams, jellies, and preserves.

Benefits:

• Attractive Foliage: The glossy, evergreen leaves provide year-round greenery and visual appeal.
• Fragrant Flowers: The fragrant flowers add a pleasant scent to garden spaces and attract pollinators.
• Edible Fruit: The fruit is nutritious and can be used in various culinary applications.
• Drought Tolerance: Adapted to dry conditions, making it a low-maintenance option for water-wise gardens.
• Versatility: Suitable for a range of garden settings, including hedges, screens, containers, and as a specimen plant.

Carissa macrocarpa (Natal Plum) is a versatile and attractive plant known for its glossy foliage, fragrant flowers, and edible fruit. Its dense growth and thorny branches make it an excellent choice for hedges and screens, while its fruit provides a unique culinary addition.