Natal plum (Carissa macrocarpa)
Care, watering, light and tips for Natal plum on Floravia.
Quick facts
- Family: Apocynaceae
- Difficulty: Moderate care
- Watering: every 7 days
- Light: Partial shade
- Temperature: 10–30 °C
- Toxicity: Toxic to pets
About Natal plum
Carissa macrocarpa, commonly known as Natal Plum, is an evergreen shrub or small tree native to Southern Africa, valued for its attractive glossy dark green leaves, bifurcated thorns, and fragrant star-shaped white flowers. It produces edible bright red plum-like fruits. It is ideal for hedges, defensive barriers, or as an ornamental specimen in coastal and subtropical gardens.
Native range
South Africa
Care tips
It requires full sun exposure for optimal flowering and fruiting, although it tolerates partial shade. Watering should be moderate, allowing the substrate to dry out slightly between waterings, and it is quite drought-tolerant once established. It prefers well-drained soils, rich in organic matter, and with a neutral to slightly acidic pH. A common mistake is excessive or ill-timed pruning, which can reduce fruit production.
How to save a dying Natal plum
- Warning signs
- Yellow or reddish leaves, easy shedding, dry tips. Plant looks wilted or lacks vigor.
- First aid
- Check soil moisture. If dry, water deeply. If waterlogged, aerate roots. Protect from extreme sun.
- What kills it
- Overwatering (root rot) or prolonged drought. Lack of light or intense cold are also critical.
- Can it be saved?
- Yes, if roots aren't completely rotted or main stem isn't dry. Act quickly.