5 Seeds Natal Plum Carissa macrocarpa Tropical Evergreen Shrub Edible Fruit

Natal Plum (Carissa macrocarpa) is an evergreen tropical shrub prized for its glossy green foliage, fragrant white flowers, and bright red edible fruit. It works well as a hedge, container plant, or landscape specimen in warm climates.

The fruit is used fresh or in jams, jellies, and desserts. Grow it in full sun with well-drained soil; it tolerates coastal conditions and light frost once established. Regular pruning keeps a tidy shape in containers or hedges.
Species: Carissa macrocarpa
Variety: Natal Plum
Type: Tropical evergreen shrub
Plant_Habit: Upright, spreading, dense
Sun: Full sun to partial shade
Soil: Well-drained, sandy to loamy, slightly acidic to neutral
Days_to_Harvest: 2-3 years from seed
Zones: 9-11
Germination: Scarify seed and soak 24 hours before sowing; germinates in 2-6 weeks at 70-80F
Sowing: Surface sow and press lightly into moist seed-starting mix; do not bury deeply
Spacing: 3-5 feet apart in landscape; 1 plant per medium container
Notes: Drought tolerant once established; protect young plants from frost