The Carissa genus belongs to Apocynaceae (Dogbane) family. Apocynaceae, family of flowering plants, include about 400 genera and 4555 species of trees, shrubs, woody vines, and herbs. Members of the family are distributed primarily in tropical and subtropical areas of the world. Nearly all members of this family are poisonous, and some species are used medicinally.

A number of the Apocynaceae family members are cultivated as ornamentals best known are Adenium obesa (Desert Rose), Mandevilla splendens (Rock Trumpet), Allamanda cathartica (Golden Trumpet), Plumeria alba (Frangipani), Nerium oleander (Oleander), Vinca major (Big Periwinkle), Asclepias curassavica (Blood Flower), Hoya carnosa (Wax Flower), Thevetia peruviana (Yellow Oleander), Trachelospermum jasminoides (Star Jasmine), Amsonia elliptica (Bluestar) Carissa bispinosa(Natal plum).

Carissa bispinosa is an evergreen and spiny shrub, occasionally may reach up to 5 metres height. It is more often a dense bush or rambling shrub in wooded spots. The main stem is nearly always multi-stemmed and many branched. The plant is native an area from Uganda to South Africa. The name Carissa comes from the Indian name for plants of this genus. The epithet bispinosa is derived from a Latin word that means two-spined, referring to the forked spines of the plants.

Natal Plum’s branches exhibits a repeated forked pattern. Spines are once or twice-forked, rarely single, and are sometimes even absent. Simple leaves are 10-70 x 10-35 mm, opposite, shortly petiolate, ovate, broadly ovate or elliptic, with a smooth margin, glossy dark green above, paler below, with short, thorn-like tips. The plant contains a milky sap.

Carissa bispinosa classified as dioecious (having the male and female organs in separate and distinct individuals) but also there are monoceous (both male and female flowers on the same one) induviduals. Plant has clusters of delicate, delightfully fragranced, pinkish-white, starry flowers at spring and summer. Edible, red oval fruits are produced after flowering. Fruit and flowers can be seen at the same time. The whole fruit is edible and although the skin is slightly milky, it has a delicious flavour. Natal Plum’s attractive flowers may attract birds, bees and butterflies. The delicious, nutrient-rich fruits contain high level of vitamin C.

Carissa bispinosa grow best in a damp but well-drained, nutrient dense soil. They need half-shade or sunny condition. Plants are moderately drought and wind resistant; do not mind sea breezes, but rather frost tender. They may withstand -4°C for a short time. Propagation is done by seed or by cuttings. Plant can be lightly pruned to keep it neat. It has many cultivars and woody, dwarf and prostrates varieties.

Use in Landscape: Natal Plums are of decorative value as an ornamental; because of the contrast in shining green leaves, white flowers and bright red fruit. Also flowers have a pleasant scent. They thrive near the coast or inland gardens where winters are mild. Plant is highly drought resistant and can adapt well to arid environments. Suitable for container planting, will survive in shady areas. They respond well to pruning, and make a lovely bonsai subject.

Plants may be used to make an impenetrable informal border or an ornamental hedge. For these purpose, they should be planted approximately 1 meter apart.