Natal Plum Flower
Carissa macrocarpa (Eckl.) A.DC.
Natal plum flowers are fragrant, star-shaped, white blooms with five waxy petals and a jasmine-like scent that intensifies at night. These beautiful flowers produce edible red fruits and bloom continuously throughout the year in warm climates.
Apocynaceae (Dogbane family)
Year-round in tropical climates, with peak bloom in spring
Symbolism & Meanings
Key Meanings
Perfect For
Color Meanings
Similar flowers: pachypodiums and sand verbenas also share similar meanings.
Cultural Significance
In South Africa, Natal plum (amatungulu in Zulu) has been harvested from the wild for centuries. The name "amatungulu" means "like thorns," referring to the plant's formidable defense. The sweet fruit emerges from a thorny, latex-bearing plant, symbolizing rewards that come after protection and patience. The night-intensifying fragrance connects to African traditions of evening gatherings. Introduced to the US in 1886, it became popular in Florida, Texas, and California. The flower's jasmine-like scent and year-round blooming make it a symbol of perpetual beauty and resilience in harsh coastal environments.Shop Our Floral Collection
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Physical Characteristics
Natural Habitat
Growing Guide
Sunlight
Full sun to fairly heavy shade; full sun for best flowering and fruiting
Water
Low to moderate; drought-tolerant once established; avoid waterlogging
Soil
Well-drained, Sandy, Various soil types, Tolerant of poor soils
Expert Growing Tips
Fragrant flowers are pollinated by night-flying insects in native habitat
May need hand pollination outside native range for fruit production
Prune to induce more fruiting tips
Salt-spray and ocean wind tolerant
Caution: sharp, forked thorns up to 2 inches long
Uses & Benefits
Ornamental Uses
- Security hedge or screen (thorny)
- Foundation planting
- Coastal and seaside gardens
- Containers and patio plants
- Ground cover (dwarf varieties)
Traditional Uses
- Fruits edible when fully ripe, rich in vitamin C
- Fruit has raspberry-cranberry flavor
- Used in jams, jellies, pies, and sauces
- High antioxidant content in fruits
- Contains milky latex that can cause mild skin irritation
Disclaimer: Information provided is for educational purposes only. Consult healthcare professionals before using any plant medicinally.
Further Reading
Frequently Asked Questions about the Natal Plum Flower
Are Natal plum fruits edible?
Yes, Natal plum fruits are edible when fully ripe (deep red or purple). They taste like a mix of raspberries and cranberries and can be eaten raw or made into jams, jellies, and pies.
Why do Natal plum flowers smell stronger at night?
Natal plum flowers intensify their jasmine-like fragrance at night to attract nocturnal pollinators like night-flying moths and beetles, which are their primary pollinators in their native South African habitat.
Is Natal plum toxic?
Only the ripe fruit is safe to eat. The plant contains milky latex in stems and leaves that can cause mild skin irritation and digestive upset if consumed. Keep unripe fruits away from children and pets.
How thorny is Natal plum?
Natal plum has sharp, forked (Y-shaped) thorns up to 2 inches long on most varieties. This makes it excellent for security hedges but potentially hazardous near walkways. Thornless cultivars are available.
Available Colors
Quick Facts
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