How to Grow and Care for Carissa

Nearly all parts of the natal plum are poisonous except for the fruit, which is red when ripe and quite delicious. It is a hardy plant, in the same family as the Oleander, and its thorns make it a good choice for barrier hedges. The white flowers are fragrant and keep blooming across two seasons.

A well-known small tree in its native region, the fruit of the bush plum has been traditionally used as a dye, thanks to its tannin content. The root of this large shrub is said to be an effective snake and fly repellent. As with many plants of the Carissa genus, the bush plum has a potential industrial value as fuel.

Karanda (Carissa carandas) garners more attention for its uses than for its appearance, though its small red berries attract the eye. The thorns on its branches can extend to two inches in length, making it a formidable foe for the gardener as it climbs amongst other trees and shrubs.

Carissa bispinosa grows as a shrub or small tree up to 5 metres (16 ft) tall. Its fragrant flowers feature a white corolla. The fruit is red when ripe. Its habitat is woodland and forest from 1,080 m (3,540 ft) to 1,630 m (5,350 ft) altitude. Vernacular names for the plant include "forest num-num" and "Y-thorned carissa". Carissa bispinosa is native an area from Uganda to South Africa.

Karoo num-num is a resilient shrub native to arid regions, bearing glossy, oval leaves and sharp thorns that deter herbivores. The plant is distinguished by its deep red, berry-like fruits, which provide vital nourishment for local wildlife. Its hardy nature and drought tolerance make it a survivor in challenging climates.