How to Grow Natal Plum
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Natal Plum
Carissa macrocarpa
shrubNatal plum is a dense, thorny evergreen shrub native to South Africa that produces fragrant white flowers followed by edible deep red plum-like fruits. The plant is valued for its ornamental appeal, delicious fruit, and ability to thrive in challenging growing conditions. It's commonly used as a hedge, screen, or specimen plant in warm climates.
When should you plant Natal Plum in your zone?
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Example Natal Plum timeline · Pittsburgh, PA (Zone 6b)
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Plant Natal Plum
Around Apr 17Near Pittsburgh's average last spring frost.
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Tend & protect
Late spring–summerWatering, feeding, and pest-watch reminders.
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Harvest Natal Plum
Late summer into fallBefore the first fall frost (≈ Nov 8)
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Growing Conditions
Soil
Growing Zones
Find your zone →Thrives in zones 9b-11, can tolerate brief freezes to 25°F (-4°C) when established
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Get my Natal Plum timeline →Growth Stages
Establishment
6-12 monthsYoung plant with sparse foliage establishing root system
Water consistently, provide afternoon shade in hot climates, mulch to conserve moisture, avoid fertilizing until roots are established
Vegetative Growth
1-2 yearsPlant develops dense branching structure with glossy green leaves and prominent thorns
Prune to shape as desired, fertilize monthly during growing season with balanced or fruit-tree fertilizer, maintain regular watering schedule
Flowering
Year-round in optimal conditions; peak in spring and fallFragrant five-petaled white flowers with pink undersides appear in clusters at branch tips
Reduce nitrogen fertilizer to encourage flowering, maintain consistent moisture, avoid heavy pruning, provide pollinator access
Fruiting
8-12 weeks from flower to mature fruitFlowers develop into oval fruits that mature from green to deep red, approximately 1.5-2 inches long
Maintain regular watering during fruit development, avoid stress conditions, thin excess fruit if desired for larger individual fruits
Harvest & Dormancy
Ongoing; winter dormancy if applicableRipe fruits ready for harvest; plant may slow growth in winter in cooler zones
Pick ripe fruits regularly to encourage continued flowering, reduce watering in winter, minimal pruning needed
Companion Planting
Plan your garden →Plant with:
Avoid planting near:
Common Pests
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Inspect regularly, remove by hand or spray with horticultural oil, prune severely infested branches
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Spray with insecticidal soap or neem oil, remove with alcohol-soaked cotton swab on small infestations
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Increase humidity, spray with water to dislodge, use miticide if severe, improve air circulation
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Remove fallen fruits promptly, thin fruit canopy for air circulation, use fruit netting if needed
Uses
Fresh Eating & Jams
CulinaryThe fruit has a sweet-tart flavor reminiscent of plums and strawberries. Eaten fresh, used in jams, jellies, sauces, and desserts. [source]
Traditional Medicine
MedicinalIn South African and traditional medicine, various plant parts have been used to treat wounds, fever, and digestive issues. Root and leaf extracts have antimicrobial properties. [source]
Natural Hedge & Barrier
HouseholdDense growth habit with sharp thorns makes it an effective living barrier, security hedge, or privacy screen that also produces edible fruit. [source]
Landscaping & Specimen
OrnamentalFragrant flowers, attractive foliage, and ornamental fruit make it a valuable landscape plant for tropical and subtropical gardens. Popular in xeriscape designs. [source]
Bird & Pollinator Food
WildlifeFlowers attract pollinators including butterflies and bees, while ripe fruits are consumed by birds and wildlife, supporting local ecosystems. [source]
This is not medical advice. LizPlants is not a medical resource. Always consult a qualified healthcare professional before using plants medicinally.
Harvest Tips
Pick fruits when fully red and slightly soft to gentle pressure; fruits do not ripen further after picking. Harvest regularly to encourage continuous flowering and fruiting. Best flavor develops when fruit is deep crimson. Can harvest multiple times per season as plant produces continuously in warm climates.
Fun Facts
- 🌱 Natal plum gets its common name from Natal, South Africa, its native region. Despite the name, it is not related to true plums (Prunus species).
- 🌱 The fruit contains 15-20 seeds per plum and is sometimes called 'large-fruited natal plum' to distinguish it from smaller-fruited Carissa carandas (Karanda).
- 🌱 A single mature plant can produce dozens of flowers and fruits simultaneously year-round in tropical climates, making it a prolific fruiter despite its tough, drought-tolerant nature.
Gardening Terms
New to gardening? Learn about terms used in this guide:
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