Full Sun
Easy care
Moderate watering
Tender
8a-11b
USDA zone
-12°C
Minimum temperature
Expected size
Height | Spread | |
|---|---|---|
5m | Max | 3m |
1m | Min | 1m |
Fruiting
spring
summer
autumn
winter
Harvest the fruits once mature and good color has developed. This occurs roughly two years after it was planted. Be delicate when picking the fruits as they bruise easily and use as fresh as possible.
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Overview
The Natal Plum is a dense thorny evergreen shrub to small tree. The oval, pink or red fruit is edible and rich in Vitamin C, magnesium and phosphorous and follows pretty fragrant white starry flowers. It may also, in addition to its sweet fruit and sweetly scented flowers, double as a neat security hedge. It is easy to grow in coastal regions and an option for xeriscaping and windy areas. ZA Distribution: Eastern Cape, KwaZulu-Natal, Western Cape.
Common problems
Diseases include bacterial, fungal and viral infections, but usually plants are problem-free.
Propagation
Seed
The seed is best sown fresh or in the spring. Keep moist until well-rooted.
Cuttings
Take 10-15cm cuttings in Spring or Autumn.
Special Features
Attracts birds
The fruit is a food source for many birds and other animals too!
Attracts useful insects
Bees love to visit the flowers.
Drought resistant
Once established, the plant can withstand dry spells and wind.
Hedge plant
Effective evergreen hedge with thorns makes it an effective security fence. it is often clipped in a more formal form too!
Attractive flowers
White fragrant star-shaped flowers with five petals.
Attractive leaves
Glossy green leaves.
Attractive fruits
The fruit is a glossy pinkish red colour. It is edible and is highly nutritional.
Attracts butterflies
Wind break
Attracts bees
Uses
Edible
The fruit is wonderful fresh or made into a preserve.
