Natal Plum Live Plant (Carissa macrocarpa)

Carissa macrocarpa is a spiny perennial shrub that is evergreen. It has spectacular edible red fruits, white fragrant flowers, and dense leathery green leaves. It is also referred to as the huge num-num in South Africa and the Natal plum. It is known as Amathungulu or umThungulu oBomvu in Zulu and the Bantu tribes of Uganda. The fruit is referred to as noem-noem in Afrikaans. It typically grows as a thick, prickly shrub, but it can also develop into a small tree up to 4 metres tall. Fruit that is not yet ripe is green and has a lot of latex. Colour changes gradually from green to bright red and then dark crimson when riped. Fruit is luscious and soft, and the sap is milky. Fruits can be consumed raw or transformed into delectable jams or jellies. Ornamental shrubs help draw birds and butterflies to gardens.

Common Name: Natal plum,large num-num,Amathungulu,umThungulu oBomvu

Botanical Name: Carissa macrocarpa

Bloom Time/Fruiting: 2 to 3 Years

Maintenance Required: Moderate