Dwarf Natal Plum
Carissa macrocarpa 'Nana'
Also known as: Carissa nana
Carissa macrocarpa 'Nana' is a compact shrub with dense green foliage and small fruits. Suitable for hedges and drought-tolerant.
Attributes
Care guide
In Cyprus
Dwarf Natal Plum is a compact, evergreen form of Carissa macrocarpa, best suited to the warm lowland and coastal areas of Cyprus. It grows in full sun to partial shade and tolerates salt spray and saline soils, which makes it a useful shrub for seaside gardens. It is drought tolerant once established, but give supplementary water according to soil moisture and weather, especially in long dry spells; plants in containers need checking more often. There is no documented minimum temperature for it, so its suitability for frost-prone areas should be judged on the local microclimate. In such areas, plant in spring once the risk of frost has passed.
Uses in gardens and projects
Dwarf Natal Plum stays low and dense, with glossy dark green leaves, so it works well as a low hedge, edging or in massed planting. It also suits pots, planters, roof terraces and coastal gardens. Its fragrant, star-shaped white flowers attract butterflies and are followed by red fruits. Only the fully ripe fruits of Carissa macrocarpa are edible; this does not apply to any other part of the plant, and the milky sap can cause mild upsets such as vomiting or diarrhoea if swallowed in large amounts. The final height depends on the clone and on how it is pruned.
Frequently asked questions
- How tall does Dwarf Natal Plum grow?
- It is a dwarf form that stays low and compact. Final height depends on the clone and on pruning, which is why it is mainly used for low hedges, edging and containers.
- Does it need a lot of water?
- It is drought tolerant once established, but it is classed as a moderate-water plant. Water regularly after planting, then supplement according to soil moisture and weather.
- Can it be planted near the sea?
- Yes. It is listed as tolerant of saline soils and salt spray, and is used in coastal planting.
- Can it grow in shade?
- It grows in full sun to partial shade; avoid deep shade.
Available Sizes
Need this plant for your project?
Choose an available size and quantity and add the plant to your quote cart. Wholesale, quote-based — no public prices.