
Natal plum (Carissa macrocarpa)
Natal plum, also known as Amatungulu
Most parts of the natal plum (Carissa macrocarpa) plant are toxic, except for the ripe fruit and some floral components.
- **Ripe Fruits**: These are bright red when mature and are known for their sweet-tart taste, making them suitable for consumption in jams, jellies, and desserts.
- **Flowers**: The white, star-shaped flowers are fragrant and can be used decoratively.
The plant is robust, belongs to the same family as Oleander, and its thorns make it an effective barrier hedge. The flowers bloom over two seasons, adding to its ornamental value.
Key Facts About Natal plum
Attributes of Natal plum
Lifespan
Perennial
Plant Type
Shrub
Plant Height
1.8 m to 4.5 m
Spread
90 cm
Leaf Color
Green
Flower Size
2.5 cm to 5 cm
Flower Color
White
Scientific Classification of Natal plum
Phylum
Vascular plants
Class
Dicotyledons
Order
Gentianales
Family
Dogbane
Genus
Carissa
Species
Natal plum
Toxicity
ingestion