Carissa Macrocarpa 'Desert Star'

Natal Plum

Botanical Name: Carissa macrocarpa 'Desert Star'
Family: Apocynaceae
Origin: South Africa (coastal)
Plant Type: Evergreen shrub

Overview

Compact Natal plum with glossy, deep-green foliage and fragrant white star-shaped flowers from spring to autumn, followed by edible red berries. Great for coastal sites, low hedges, mass planting and tubs. Handles heat, wind and salt; dislikes waterlogging.

Key Features

• Mature Size: 0.6–1 m H × 1–1.5 m W
• Growth Rate: 15-30 cm per year under good conditions
• Foliage: Glossy deep green; new growth may flush bronze
• Flowers: White, starry, fragrant; spring–autumn (spot flowers in warm spells)
  
• Fruit: Oval red berries (edible when ripe) after flowering
• Seasonal Interest: Flowers spring–autumn; decorative red fruit follows
• Wildlife Value: Attracts pollinators; fruit eaten by birds
• Tolerance: Drought-tolerant (once established), heat-tolerant, wind-tolerant, coastal-tolerant; light frost (protect from hard frost)
• Planting Density: Low hedge: 1 plant per 0.6–0.8 m; Mass: 3–4 per m²
• Pet Friendly: Non-toxic to cats and dogs; ingestion of foliage may still cause mild tummy upset. Stems can be spine-tipped—handle with care

Where It Works Best

• Sunlight: Full sun to part shade (more sun = more flowers/fruit)
• Soil: Free-draining sandy/loam; tolerates mild alkalinity; avoid soggy clay
• Water Needs: Establishment: 2 deep soaks/week for 8–12 weeks. Established: deep soak every 10–14 days in summer; monthly in winter if dry
• Maintenance: Light tip-prune after flushes to keep compact; feed in early spring
• Lifespan: 15-25 years
• Climate Zones: Temperate & Mediterranean SA gardens, including coastal areas
• Soil pH: Neutral (tolerates slightly acid–slightly alkaline)

Landscape & Design Ideas

• Clip into a neat low hedge along paths, drives or pool areas
• Mass plant for a glossy, flowering ground-level shrub layer in coastal gardens
• Containers for sunny courtyards; enjoy the perfume near entries and seating

Why You Will Love It

A tough, compact coastal performer with perfumed blooms and edible berries, giving reliable, low-care colour and structure across the warm months.