Natal Plum(Sweet Cherry) Fruit Plant

Natal Plum plant  is a hardy ornamental shrub known for its fragrant star-shaped flowers and edible red fruits 

 Profile of Natal Plum

• Botanical Name: Carissa macrocarpa

• Family: Apocynaceae (same family as oleander & frangipani)

• Common Names: Natal Plum, Amatungulu, Large Num-Num
  

 Appearance

• Growth Habit: Dense, evergreen shrub, 2–4 m tall, often used as hedges.

• Leaves: Glossy, dark green, oval, leathery, with thorny branches.

• Flowers:

  • Small, white, star-shaped, highly fragrant (like jasmine).

  • Bloom throughout the year in warm climates.

• Fruits:

  • Oval, smooth-skinned, bright red when ripe.

  • Sweet-tart flavor, edible fresh or in jams, jellies, and desserts.

 Growing & Care

• Sun Light: Full sun to partial shade.

• Soil: Well-draining sandy or loamy soil; tolerates salty coastal soils.

• Watering: Moderate; drought- and salt-tolerant once established.

• Maintenance: Can be pruned into hedges or left bushy; has spines for natural fencing.

Fertilizer

• Balanced fertilizer (10:10:10 or 14:14:14 NPK) → supports overall growth.

• High phosphorus (P) → encourages flower and fruit formation.

• Potassium (K) → improves fruit size, color, and plant health.

• Organic options: Well-rotted compost, cow manure, vermicompost, seaweed extract, or bone meal.

 Uses & Benefits

• Ornamental: Popular for hedges, borders, and coastal gardens due to its toughness.

• Edible Fruits:

  • Rich in vitamin C and antioxidants.

  • Used in jams, sauces, pies, and eaten fresh.

  • Caution: While the ripe red fruit is edible, the unripe fruit and milky sap are toxic and should not be consumed.

• Medicinal (folk use): Traditionally used for digestive health and immunity.

• Practical: Thorny growth makes it an excellent security hedge.