Care of the shrub Carissa bispinosa or Forest Num-num |
The genus Carissa, family Apocynaceae, comprises 7 species of shrubs or trees native to tropical and subtropical areas of Africa, Australia and Asia. Some species are: Carissa bispinosa, Carissa macrocarpa, Carissa tetramera, Carissa carandas. Common names: Hedgethorn, Forest Num-num, Y-thorned carissa. This species is native to South Africa. Carissa bispinosa is a very branched and dense perennial shrub that reaches 2 meters (6.56 feet) in height (5 m/16.4 feet if it has a tree-like appearance); it grows quite quickly. It has "Y"-shaped thorns and shiny, dark green, ovate leaves ending in a small thorn. The small, scented white flowers appear at the tip of the branches. It blooms in spring and early summer. The reddish, ovoid fruits are edible and are used to make jam. Forest Num-num is used to form hedges and borders, in bushy groups and as isolated specimens. It's ideal for Mediterranean coastal gardens due to it resistance to wind. Carissa bispinosa grows in full sun and semi-shade exposures. It can withstand light and occasional frosts. The soil can be normal, well-drained garden soil with coarse sand and containing plenty of organic matter (manure). Hedgethorn needs regular watering, waiting for the substrate to almost dry out completely. It can withstand a few days of drought. Fertilize with manure in early spring. Forest Num-num can be pruned after flowering to maintain a compact appearance. Carissa bispinosa is a plant resistant to the usual pests and diseases. Y-thorned carissa is easily propagated from seeds sown in spring. |
Images of the shrub Carissa bispinosa or Forest Num-num |