TopTropicals Plant Catalog

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Carissa macrocarpa, Carissa grandiflora Family: Apocynaceae Natal Plum Origin: South Africa It was first introduced into the United States in 1886 by the horticulturist Theodore L. Meade. The Carissa is subtropical to near-tropical, thriving throughout the state of Florida and enduring temperatures as low as 25 F when well-established. Young plants need protection when the temperature drops below 29F. Best growth is obtained in full sun. The plant has moderate drought tolerance and high resistance to soil salinity and salt spray. It cannot stand water-logging. The round, oval or oblong fruit, to 2 1/2 in (6.25 cm) long and up to 1 1/2 in (4 cm) across, is green and rich in latex when unripe. As it ripens, the tender, smooth skin turns to a bright magenta-red coated with a thin, whitish bloom, and finally dark-crimson. The carissa must be fully ripe, dark-red and slightly soft to the touch to be eaten raw. Thorns make Carissa an excellent plant for barriers. Makes a good container specimen or bonsai. Read more about this plant. Link to this plant: http://toptropicals.com/catalog/uid/carissa_macrocarpa.htm