Overview
Carissa bispinosa (L.) Desf. ex Brenan, also known as the Natal plum, is a flowering plant from the Apocynaceae family. This plant is native to Natal, South Africa, and is commonly grown in tropical and subtropical regions around the world.
Common Names
Natal plum, large Num-num, Amatungulu, Morukuru, and Umthungulu are some of the common names for Carissa bispinosa.
Appearance
Carissa bispinosa is a spiny shrub or small tree that grows up to 6 meters tall. The leaves are thick, glossy, and elliptical, measuring 2-8 cm long and 1-4 cm wide. The plant produces white, fragrant flowers that are star-shaped and 3-4 cm wide. The flowers usually bloom in the summer, followed by the fruits. The fruit is a round to oval-shaped berry, measuring 2-4 cm in diameter, and is yellow, orange, or red when ripe.
Uses
The fruit of Carissa bispinosa is edible, with a sweet and slightly tart flavor. The fruit can be eaten fresh or used for jam, jelly, or juice. The fruit is also rich in vitamin C, fiber, and several essential minerals. Additionally, the plant's roots and bark have been used traditionally in Africa for medicinal purposes, such as treating stomach problems, skin disorders, and fever.
Carissa bispinosa is also popular as an ornamental plant due to its attractive foliage, fragrant flowers, and colorful fruit. It can be cultivated in gardens, containers, or as hedges. The plant is easy to grow, requiring little care, and can tolerate a wide range of soil conditions. The plant's thick foliage and sharp spines also make it a popular choice for security hedges and barriers.
Overall, Carissa bispinosa is an attractive and useful plant with several culinary, medicinal, and ornamental applications.Growth Conditions for Carissa bispinosa (L.) Desf. ex Brenan
Carissa bispinosa, commonly known as the forest num-num, is a plant species that belongs to the family Apocynaceae. It is native to sub-Saharan Africa, but has also been introduced to other regions, including Australia and the Caribbean. This plant grows best under specific environmental conditions.
Light Requirements
Carissa bispinosa requires full sun exposure to grow and develop properly. The plant thrives in areas that receive direct sunlight for at least six hours a day. However, it can also tolerate partial shade and grow under light shade conditions.
Temperature Range
This plant species prefers warm climates and grows best in areas with high temperatures ranging from 20°C to 35°C. It can tolerate mild winter climates, but prolonged exposure to frost can be detrimental to growth. Young plants are more susceptible to frost damage than mature ones.
Soil Requirements
The forest num-num thrives in well-drained soils that are rich in nutrients. The soil pH range should be between 6.0 and 7.5. The plant can grow in various soil types, including sandy, loamy, and clay soils. However, it does not tolerate waterlogged soils or saline soils. Adding organic matter to the soil before planting can be beneficial for growth.
Cultivation methods
Carissa bispinosa (L.) Desf. ex Brenan or the forest num-num plant is a slow-growing evergreen shrub that can be propagated via seeds or root cuttings. It prefers well-drained soil and thrives well in full sunlight or partial shade. A spacing of around 2-3 meters is recommended when planting.
Watering needs
Carissa bispinosa requires moderate watering. It should be watered generously during the growing season and sparingly in the dormant phase. Water should not be allowed to stagnate around the root area as this may lead to root rot. Overwatering should be avoided as it can cause leaf discoloration and may ultimately lead to the death of the plant.
Fertilization
Fertilization is necessary to boost the growth of Carissa bispinosa. Organic manure can be applied to the soil in spring as this is the active growing season. Fertilizers that are high in nitrogen should be avoided as they promote leafy growth at the expense of flowers and fruit. A balanced fertilizer with NPK (Nitrogen, Phosphorus, and Potassium) ratio of 8-8-8 or 10-10-10 can be used.
Pruning
Pruning is essential for the maintenance of Carissa bispinosa. This plant requires pruning to maintain a desired size and shape as it has a tendency to grow indoors. Pruning should be done after the plant has finished flowering and during the growing season. Dead stems and leaves should be removed, and diseased parts of the plant should be discarded. When pruning, ensure to use sharp and sterilized tools to prevent the spread of disease.
Propagation methods of Carissa bispinosa (L.) Desf. ex Brenan
Carissa bispinosa (L.) Desf. ex Brenan, also known as Natal plum or large num-num, is a popular ornamental plant with attractive evergreen foliage and showy white flowers. Propagation of Carissa bispinosa can be done by several methods.
Propagation by seeds
Seed propagation is one of the common methods of propagating Carissa bispinosa. The seeds should be collected from the healthy and matured plants. They should be rinsed in water and dried in shade for one or two days before sowing. The seeds can be sown in a well-drained soil mix in a seedling tray. Keep the soil slightly moist and place the tray in a warm and bright area. The seeds will germinate in about 1-2 weeks. Once the seeds germinate, transplant them into individual containers and grow them under suitable conditions.
Propagation by cuttings
Carissa bispinosa can also be propagated by stem cuttings. The stem cuttings should be taken from the healthy and matured plants in the early summer season. Choose a stem that is about 5-6 inches long and free from any disease or damage. Remove all the leaves from the bottom half of the cutting. Dip the cutting in a rooting hormone powder and plant it in a well-drained soil mix. Keep the soil slightly moist and place the cutting in a bright and warm location. Roots will start developing in about 3-4 weeks. Once the roots are well established, transplant the cutting into a larger pot or into the outdoor garden.
Propagation by layering
Layering is another propagation method suitable for Carissa bispinosa. Select a healthy and flexible stem from the plant and bend it towards the ground. Make a shallow cut on the underside of the stem where it touches the soil. Use a small pebble or stick to keep the stem in place. Cover the area with soil and press it firmly. Water it well and keep the soil moist. The stem will develop roots in about 3-4 weeks. Once the roots are well established, cut the stem from the mother plant and transplant it into a new container or outdoor garden.
These are the commonly used propagation methods suitable for Carissa bispinosa. Choose the one that suits you best and follow proper care instructions to grow healthy plants.
Disease and Pest Management for Carissa bispinosa (L.) Desf. ex Brenan
Carissa bispinosa, commonly known as the Natal Plum, is a fruit-bearing shrub that is native to South Africa. Although grown for its edible fruit, the plant is also a target for numerous pests and diseases. Here are a few common diseases and pests and how to manage them:
Diseases
Crown Rot: This is a fungal disease that affects the roots and crown of the plant. Symptoms include wilting, yellowing, and dropping of leaves. The disease spreads quickly and can be fatal to the plant. To manage this disease, remove the infected plant parts, and avoid overwatering.
Anthracnose: This disease is caused by a fungus that attacks the leaves and stems. Symptoms include dark spots on the leaves and stem, which eventually turn brown and cause the leaves to fall off. To manage this disease, prune the infected parts and apply a fungicide.
Pests
Scale Insects: These pests appear as small brown bumps on the stems and leaves of the plant. They feed on the sap of the plant, causing wilting and yellowing of leaves. To manage these pests, remove them with a fine brush or cotton swab dipped in rubbing alcohol.
Mealybugs: Mealybugs are small, soft-bodied insects that attach themselves to the leaves and stems of the plant. They suck the sap of the plant, causing yellowing and wilting of leaves. To manage these pests, handpick them or apply an insecticide.
Spider Mites: These tiny pests are barely visible to the naked eye. They cause yellowing and wilting of leaves and produce a fine webbing on the undersides of the leaves. To manage these pests, wash the leaves regularly with water or apply an insecticidal soap.
It is essential to maintain good plant hygiene to prevent the spread of diseases and pests. Regularly remove dead and damaged plant parts, and avoid overcrowding of plants. Also, ensure the plant gets adequate light, water, and nutrients, which will help it remain healthy and less susceptible to diseases and pest infestation.
