About Carissa:

Carissa is a genus in the family Apocynaceae, native to tropical and subtropical regions of Africa, Asia, and Australia. The plants are well-known for their glossy foliage, fragrant white flowers, and attractive, often edible fruits.

Key Features:

1. Foliage:

   • Evergreen with thick, glossy, dark green leaves, giving the plant a lush appearance.

2. Flowers:

   • Star-shaped, fragrant white flowers that bloom profusely during the growing season.

3. Fruits:

   • The fruits are oval, red to purple in color, and often edible. Some varieties are known as Natal Plum and are used in jams, jellies, and desserts.

4. Thorns:

   • Many species have sharp thorns, which makes them useful as natural hedges or barriers.

Care Instructions:

1. Light:

   • Thrives in full sun to partial shade. Full sun promotes better flowering and fruiting.

2. Soil:

   • Prefers well-draining soil but is tolerant of a variety of soil types, including sandy and rocky soils.

3. Watering:

   • Drought-tolerant once established but benefits from regular watering during dry spells. Avoid overwatering.

4. Temperature:

   • Grows best in warm climates and is hardy in USDA zones 9–11. Protect from frost in cooler regions.

5. Pruning:

   • Prune lightly to maintain the desired shape and size. Handle with care due to the sharp thorns.

6. Fertilization:

   • Fertilize with a balanced, slow-release fertilizer during the growing season for optimal growth and fruit production.