Native & adapted

Natal plum

Carissa macrocarpa

Also known as Carissa · Amatungulu

A common Phoenix landscape shrub with glossy leaves, fragrant white star flowers and edible red fruit. Thorny, salt tolerant and easy.

EdibleFruitingHedgeEvergreenThornyPollinator

Landscape layersHedging · Understory · Ground cover

Mature size2–8 ft tall and 3–8 ft wide depending on variety

Climate fitUrban core · USDA 9b–10a · Valley suburbs · USDA 9a–9b · Desert outskirts · USDA 8b–9b

Plant spacing3–5 ft apart for a hedge

FrostDamaged below about 26°F; usually recovers.

Special categoriesEDIBLE · POLLINATOR ATTRACTING

Hardiness guidanceUSDA 9b–11; damaged below about 26°F

Winter chillNone

Typical harvestFruit forms off and on through much of the year, heaviest in summer.

Before you plant

These conditions determine whether it will thrive.

Soil chemistry

Tolerates alkaline, sandy and salty soil.

Required microclimatePlacement is part of the growing system.

Hedges, foundation plantings and patio edges.

Right plant, right place

Dwarf forms are often used as groundcover or low hedges. The milky sap and thorns can irritate skin.

Best regional fit: Urban core · USDA 9b–10a, Valley suburbs · USDA 9a–9b, Desert outskirts · USDA 8b–9b.

Light

Full sun to part shade; afternoon shade in the hottest spots.

Water

Low to moderate. Deep water weekly in summer.

Fruit set

Mostly self-fertile; hand pollinating or a second plant improves fruit set. Moths visit the night-scented flowers.

Harvest

Ripe fruit tastes like a tart cranberry; eat fresh or make sauce and jelly. Only the ripe fruit is edible.

Planting & stewardship