Carissa Macrocarpa 20lt
Common Name: Num Num Plant, Natal Plum

Full Sun
Afternoon Sun
Wind Tolerant
Drought Tolerant
Easy To Grow
Low Watering
Indigenous
Evergreen

Carissa Macrocarpa, commonly known as Natal Plum or Large Num-Num, is a species of flowering shrub native to South Africa. It belongs to the Apocynaceae family, which also includes other well-known plants like frangipani and oleander. The specific epithet “macrocarpa” refers to its large fruit size.

Appearance: Natal Plum is an evergreen shrub with glossy, dark green, leathery leaves. It can reach a height of about 2 to 3 meters.

Flowers: The plant produces attractive, star-shaped, white flowers that have a sweet fragrance. These flowers are typically around 2.5 cm in diameter and bloom in clusters.

Fruit: One of the distinguishing features of this plant is its large, edible fruit. The fruits are spherical, about the size of a small plum (2-4 cm in diameter), and turn from green to deep red or purplish-black when ripe. The fruit is juicy, with a mildly sweet flavour, and is often used in jams, jellies, and desserts.

Uses: In addition to being grown for its ornamental value due to its attractive flowers and glossy foliage, Natal Plum is also cultivated for its fruit. The fruit is a popular ingredient in traditional South African cuisine and is used to make preserves and alcoholic beverages.

Growing conditions: Natal Plum prefers warm, subtropical to tropical climates and is well-suited to coastal areas. It thrives in full sun or partial shade and requires well-draining soil. It can tolerate periods of drought once established, making it relatively low-maintenance.