Carissa macrocarpa, also known as Natal Plum or Dwarf Plum, is native to Southern Africa and is commonly found in coastal regions. It is a hardy, evergreen shrub.
The Natal Plum is an attractive plant with dense foliage. It is easy to care for and quite resilient. It is acceptive of pruning and may be easily shaped.
I only have one small plant for now and it was kept in a very small bonsai pot. I have since transferred it to a larger pot in order to hope for more growth and the opportunity observe it growing. Only then will I be able to shape it and see how it matures.
- Core Identification & Taxonomy
- Scientific Name: Carissa macrocarpa.
- Common Name: Natal Plum, Dwarf Plum. big num-num
- Family: Apocynaceae
- Varietals:
- Habitat/Range: Southern Africa
- Morphology & Characteristics
- Growth Habit: Shrub to small tree
- Leaves: Dense foliage.
- Flowers: Fragrant white flowers.
- Fruit/Seed: Small fruits best for preserves or birds.
- Stem/Bark: .
- Growth: Normal
- Bonsai Notes
- Sun Exposure: Full sun 4-8 hours daily. This plant can stand the afternoon sun.
- Water Use: Drought tolerant once established, moderate water. Do NOT overwater, allow it to dry between waterings. Some salt wind exposure is normal so salt spray once a month if you wish.
- Soil Mix: Limestone (anapog), Akadama, Pumice, Lava Rock
- Fertilizing: Balanced fertilizer every 4–6 weeks during the active growing season (spring through autumn). Reduce or stop feeding during the dormant period or after repotting.
- Styling and Maintenance
- Pruning for Ramification: Regular pruning is essential but only after bloomnig period is over. Remove any dead material
- Defoliation: Eliminate crossing branches and pinch leaves to encourage branching and more leaves.
- Wiring: Branches can be wired year-round, but monitor the wire closely may scar if the wire “bites” in during periods of fast growth.
Gallery images
First, we are uploading pictures of our plants to show the parts of a plant that may help in identification. Second, we only have so many plants and my photography skills are not actually skillful. Finally, if it would help to see another angle or view, view us a message and we will attempt to get the right picture perspective.
