NATAL PLUM

(Carissa macrocarpa)

Natal plum planted as a hedge

Synonyms: Carissa grandiflora,

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Natal plum is a spiny shrub of South African origin.

            It is an evergreen shrub, with a loose mounding shape, 2 to 7 feet tall and having a spread of 7-10 feet, depending upon location.  The stem is usually thorny with forked spines; leaves thick, oval, shiny and dark green and leathery; sap white.  Flowers are solitary, white, star shaped, 1-2 inches wide and fragrant.  The scent intensifies at night. 

            The plant is multiplied by seed as well as cuttings.  It is commonly planted as a hedge, barrier or low screen.  It is rarely planted as an exclusive fruit tree, though the fruits are always harvested and used.

            It is a very hardy plant and hardly requires irrigation.  It can even tolerate some salinity in the soil.  The plant also grows quickly.

            Fruits are attractive, egg shaped, 1.5 inch long and about 1 inch in diameter.  These turn bright crimson with darker streaks at full maturity.  Each fruit contains 10-12 small brown flat seeds.  The unripe fruits exude white latex.

            The pulp is deep red or crimson with white mottling.

            The fruits are eaten out of hand. This fruit may be used canned or frozen; as jelly or preserves; in salads, sherbets, and sauces; or as a juice for punch.

            Natal plum has relatively large quantities of sugar and sufficient acid and pectin to make a good jelly. It is an excellent source of Vitamin C, containing somewhat more than the average orange. However, it is only a fair to poor source of all the other vitamins.