The Carissa, or natal plum, Carissa grandiflora, is native to
South Africa and is one of the most popular seaside hedge plants in South
Florida because of its tolerance to salt spray and resistance to damage
by wind. This large shrub grows to about 15 feet and has very thick, shiny,
dark green leaves on thick branches heavily armed with sharp, branched
thorns.
This plant grows relatively slowly compared to other shrubs but makes
up for it by its many uses. Carissa is excellent as a barrier or security
hedge because of the large thorns; a large dense hedge of this is almost
impenetrable. The plant also has white fragrant flowers about 1-1/2 to
2 inches in diameter for most of the year. The heaviest bloom is during
the warmer months, and many varieties form large numbers of large--up to
2 inches long--oval-to-elliptical-shaped reddish fruits.
The thin skin of the fruit encloses a reddish pulp with several small,
almost circular seeds, and while the pulp has a white milky latex, this
in no way interferes with the eating of the fruit. The fruits are eaten
fresh but are most often used for sauces, jellies, and even ice cream. Sauce
made from carissa is often said to taste almost like that made from cranberries.
Due to the wide tolerance of soil types, carissa can be grown almost
anywhere there is good drainage and sufficient light. Carissa is not easily
damaged by cold weather either, and can be used well into Central Florida
with no problems.
Propagation of the natal plum is usually by cuttings from selected varieties
that have good quality or larger fruit. It can also be propagated easily
by seeds; however, seedlings may produce inferior fruit.
Many landscapers use carissa more for its ornamental value than for its
fruits, and allow birds and other animals to enjoy the fruits, but some
people have developed quite a liking for the fruits and purposely buy natal
plum for that purpose. Carissa can also be grown well in containers and because
of its attractive leaves, flowers and fruit, makes an excellent container
specimen or even bonsai.
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