Overview
Carissa edulis (Forssk.) Vahl, also known as the Natal plum or Amatungulu in South Africa, is a flowering shrub belonging to the Apocynaceae family. It is native to South Africa but has been introduced to other countries, including Madagascar, Kenya, Tanzania, and India. The plant has thorny branches and can grow up to 2 meters tall.
Appearance
The Natal plum has glossy, dark green leaves that are 4-7 cm long and 2-3 cm wide. The plant produces small white flowers that are sweetly scented and attract bees. The flowers are followed by plum-like fruits that are about 4 cm in diameter. The fruits turn from green to orange-red when ripe and are edible.
Uses
The Natal plum has several uses. The fruit is edible and is commonly used to make jams, jellies, and preserves. The plant is also used in traditional medicine to treat a variety of ailments, including stomach ache and diarrhea. The thorny branches of the plant are used as a barrier hedge to discourage trespassers and animals from entering a property. The plant is also used for landscaping purposes due to its attractive appearance and drought tolerance.
In conclusion, Carissa edulis (Forssk.) Vahl, commonly known as the Natal plum or Amatungulu, is a flowering shrub that is native to South Africa. It has thorny branches, glossy green leaves, sweetly scented white flowers, and plum-like edible fruits. The plant has several uses and is commonly used for landscaping purposes, as a security barrier, and in traditional medicine to treat various ailments.
Light Requirements
The Carissa edulis plant prefers bright, direct sunlight and thrives in full sun to partial shade conditions. It is not an indoor plant as it requires a lot of direct sunlight.
Temperature Requirements
The plant requires warm temperatures ranging from 70°F to 90°F (20°C to 32°C). It cannot tolerate freezing temperatures or frost and should be protected during such seasons.
Soil Requirements
The Carissa edulis plant requires well-draining soil with a slightly acidic to neutral pH range. It can grow in various soil types, including sandy soils and loamy soils. However, the plant struggles in poorly drained soils that stay continually wet.
Cultivation of Carissa edulis
Carissa edulis is a small shrub that grows well in a subtropical or tropical climate. It is easy to cultivate, and it thrives in well-drained soils that are rich in nutrients. This plant prefers a sunny location, but it can also grow in partial shade. It is essential to provide adequate space to allow the plant to grow freely without crowding.
Watering Needs
Carissa edulis requires regular watering, especially during the growing season. It is best to water deeply and less frequently as opposed to shallow watering often. This will encourage deep root growth, which leads to a healthier plant. During the winter months, reduce watering to prevent waterlogging, which may cause root rot.
Fertilization
Carissa edulis requires regular fertilization to achieve optimal growth. Feed the plant with a balanced fertilizer during the growing season to supply the necessary nutrients. Avoid over-fertilizing at all costs, as this may result in salt build-up, which will damage the roots.
Pruning
Pruning helps in shaping Carissa edulis and keeping it healthy. It is best to prune after the flowering season ends. Prune to remove dead or diseased branches, as this may cause the disease to spread to other parts of the plant. Carissa edulis also responds well to aggressive pruning, which helps stimulate new growth and increases flowering.
Propagation of Carissa edulis (Forssk.) Vahl
Carissa edulis (Forssk.) Vahl is a shrub or small tree that belongs to the Apocynaceae family. This plant is commonly known as Natal plum or Amathungulu in South Africa. Propagation of Carissa edulis is easy and can be done through different methods such as seeds, cuttings, or layering.
Propagation by Seeds
Seeds of Carissa edulis can be collected from mature or ripe fruits. The seeds need to be cleaned and treated with a fungicide to prevent fungal attacks. The seeds can be propagated in seed trays filled with well-draining soil and kept in a warm and moist environment. Germination can take up to 3-4 weeks, and once the seedlings have grown a few leaves, they can be transplanted to larger containers.
Propagation by Cuttings
Propagation of Carissa edulis can also be done through stem cuttings. Softwood cuttings should be taken from new growth in spring or early summer. The cuttings should be around 8-10cm in length and should be dipped in rooting hormone before being planted in a well-drained potting mix. The cuttings should be kept in a warm and humid environment until they root, which can take 4-6 weeks.
Propagation by Layering
Layering is another way to propagate Carissa edulis. This method is done by burying a low-hanging branch to soil level without detaching it from the mother plant. The branch should be wounded to encourage rooting and a small amount of rooting hormone can be applied. The area where the branch touches the soil should be covered with soil and kept moist. Roots will start to form in a few weeks, and once they are well-established, the new plant can be detached from the mother plant and planted elsewhere.
Disease and Pest Management for Carissa edulis (Forssk.) Vahl
Carissa edulis, also known as the Desert or Natal Plum, is a hardy garden plant that is resistant to most pests and diseases. However, like any other plant, it is prone to infestations by various pests and diseases. Here are some common diseases and pests that might affect Carissa edulis and suggestions for how to manage them:
Diseases
Canker is a fungal disease that can infect the stems, branches, and trunks of Carissa edulis, causing them to become sunken, discolored, and cracked. To manage canker, prune the affected branches or stems to prevent the fungus from spreading. Apply fungicides to the affected areas to reduce the severity of the disease.
Leaf spot is a fungal disease that causes small, circular spots on the leaves, which later turn yellow and drop off. Manage leaf spot by removing the affected leaves and pruning the affected branches. Ensure proper spacing and adequate ventilation to minimize the risk of fungal infections. Use fungicides to reduce the severity of the disease.
Root rot is a fungal disease that affects the roots of Carissa edulis, causing them to become brown, slimy, and rotten. The disease is caused by overwatering or poorly draining soils. To manage root rot, practice proper watering by allowing the soil to dry out before watering again. Improve soil drainage by adding organic matter to the soil and avoid over-fertilizing.
Pests
Mealybug is a common pest that affects the foliage of Carissa edulis. The pest is easy to identify as it appears as a white, cotton-like substance on the leaves. To manage mealybugs, remove the affected plant parts and prune the affected branches. Regularly inspect the plants for early signs of infestation. Use insecticidal soaps or horticultural oils to control the pest.
Spider mites are tiny pests that feed on the leaves of Carissa edulis, causing yellowing, curling, and leaf drop. The pests are difficult to spot, and their presence is usually indicated by yellowing of the leaves. To manage spider mites, spray the plants with water to dislodge the pests and improve humidity levels around the plant. Use insecticidal soaps or miticides to control the pest.
Scale insects are small, oval-shaped insects that attach themselves to the leaves and stems of Carissa edulis, causing yellowing, stunted growth, and leaf drop. To manage scale insects, remove the affected plant parts and prune the affected branches. Regularly inspect the plants for early signs of infestation. Use insecticidal soaps, horticultural oils, or systemic insecticides to control the pest.
By monitoring your Carissa edulis for signs of pests and diseases, you can take action early to manage the problem and keep your plants healthy.
