Carissa macrocarpa (Big num-num) Bonsai Seeds

Carissa macrocarpa

Bonsai Seeds

Family: Apocynaceae
Common names: Natal plum, big num-num (Eng.); grootnoem-noem (Afr.); Amatungulu (Zulu)

Above: Carissa macrocarpa bonsai 15 yrs old.

The Natal Plum is a fast-growing, ornamental shrub that is wind resistant and can grow in coastal areas. It usually forms a dense thorny shrub but it can grow into a small tree up to 4 m high.

The large, oval red fruit is edible and is rich in Vitamin C, magnesium and phosphorus. It flowers from spring to midsummer.

Above: Carissa macrocarpa Bonsai 3 yrs old

The shrub makes an excellent Bonsai and in the garden it makes a good hedge. The fruits can be eaten raw or made into delicious jams or jellies. This ornamental shrub attracts birds and butterflies to the garden.