

How to identify Natal plum (Carissa macrocarpa)
Natal plum, also known as Amatungulu
Natal plum is a robust evergreen shrub characterized by its spiny architecture, bearing stiff forked spines about 1/2 inch (1.3 cm) long. Its foliage consists of glossy, leathery green leaves that contribute to its dense appearance. Delicate, fragrant white flowers emerge, contrasting with the dark green foliage. Following flowering, this shrub produces distinctive large, edible red fruits. Though typically it reaches 5 to 7 feet (1.5 to 2.1 meters) in height, natal plum is capable of growing up to 30 feet (9 meters) under optimal conditions.
Smooth, simple, and opposite leaves with waxy surface; tips bear single thorn.
Star-shaped white flowers with five distinct lobes, approximately 2 inches (5 cm) across.
Oval-shaped fruit, 0.6 - 2 inches (1.5 - 5 cm) long, transitioning from green to red to dark crimson.
Smooth, greenish stems with longitudinal ridges and double-pronged thorns less than 5 cm (2 inches).
Robust shrub with forked spines about 1/2 inch (1.3 cm) long, capable of growing up to 30 feet (9 meters).
The leaves of natal plum are smooth, simple, and opposite, measuring about 0.8 to 1.6 inches (2 to 4 cm) long and 0.6 to 1.2 inches (1.5 to 3 cm) wide. They are elliptic to broadly ovate in shape, and the surface is waxy. The upper surface is often dark grey to brown, while the lower surface is pale green to brown. The leaf tips commonly feature a single thorn, providing a distinctive characteristic for identification.
Natal plum produces elegant, star-shaped flowers with five distinct, white lobes. Each tubular flower is approximately 2 inches (5 cm) across. Known for their delightful jasmine-like fragrance, these flowers bloom throughout the year, adding a sweet aroma to the surrounding environment. The consistent blooming period, combined with their pristine white color and unique petal arrangement, makes natal plum's flowers easily identifiable for plant enthusiasts.
The stem of natal plum features smooth, greenish young stems that are strongly wrinkled into longitudinal ridges and channels. Older twigs display a similar appearance but may be greenish or brownish with an often glossy surface. Notable are the stout, double-pronged thorns which measure less than 5 cm (2 inches), emerging prominently on the branches. These characteristics are critical for identifying natal plum's stem.
The fruit of natal plum is an oval-shaped berry, approximately 0.6 - 2 inches (1.5 - 5 cm) in length, resembling small plums. It features a thin, fleshy skin that is initially green, indicating immaturity and a high latex content. As it ripens, the fruit transitions to a vibrant red and eventually a dark crimson shade. The fruit's interior is tender and juicy with a milky sap. When ripe, it becomes edible and houses a multitude of small brown seeds, usually between 3 and 10 per fruit.
Gardenia jasminoides is an evergreen shrub with unique, glossy evergreen leaves and stunning flowers. The sophisticated, matte white flowers are often used in bouquets. The exceptional beauty of this ornamental plant has made it a popular and highly appreciated plant amongst gardeners and horticulturalists.
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Scientific Classification of Natal plum