The Natal Plum, scientifically known as Carissa macrocarpa, is a versatile evergreen shrub native to the coastal regions of South Africa. It is characterized by its dense, leathery, dark green leaves, fragrant white flowers, and distinctive forked thorns. While it can grow into a small tree, reaching up to 20 feet in its natural habitat, most cultivated varieties maintain a more shrub-like size. The plant is well-adapted to warm climates and is cultivated in various subtropical zones around the world, including parts of the United States.
Nutritional and Health Benefits
The Natal Plum fruit offers nutritional advantages. It is especially rich in Vitamin C, exceeding the content found in citrus fruits; 100 grams of Natal Plum fruit can supply over 60% of the daily recommended intake. This supports immune function, skin health, and acts as an antioxidant.
The fruit also contains Vitamins A and B, contributing to vision, nervous system function, and overall well-being. It provides essential minerals such as calcium, magnesium, phosphorus, iron, and potassium. These minerals strengthen bones, improve muscle function, and regulate blood pressure.
In traditional African medicine, Natal Plum fruit has been used to address various ailments. It has been consumed to ward off colds and flu, and its roots employed for inflammation and aches. The fruit can be eaten fresh, or processed into jams, jellies, pies, and sauces. Only the ripe, red fruit is edible, as other parts of the plant contain a milky sap and are considered toxic.
Landscape and Aesthetic Benefits
Natal Plum is appreciated for its aesthetic appeal and adaptability in landscape design. Its glossy, deep green foliage provides a lush, year-round backdrop. The plant produces delicate, star-shaped white flowers that are intensely fragrant, often described as smelling like orange blossoms or jasmine, with their scent intensifying at night.
The vibrant red, plum-shaped fruits, which appear alongside the flowers for much of the year in warmer climates, add further ornamental interest. The combination of leaves, blooms, and fruit makes it a standout choice for garden applications. Natal Plum is versatile, suitable as a formal hedge, a dense privacy screen, a low-growing groundcover, or as a striking specimen plant. It is also drought-tolerant once established and requires minimal maintenance.
Environmental and Practical Benefits
Beyond its ornamental and nutritional qualities, the Natal Plum offers environmental and practical advantages. Its fragrant flowers attract pollinators, including bees and butterflies, contributing to local biodiversity. The ripe fruits serve as a food source for birds and small mammals, supporting wildlife in the garden ecosystem.
The plant’s robust root system and spreading growth habit make it effective for erosion control, especially on slopes or in coastal areas. Natal Plum is tolerant of salt spray and sandy soils, thriving in seaside environments where many other plants struggle. Its dense foliage and sharp, forked thorns provide a natural security barrier, deterring unwanted access.