Natal Plum

Frost Tolerance: Tender in Phoenix, needs some protection: foliage damaged at 28° F (-2° C), serious damage at 24° F (-4° C)

Sun Exposure: Full sun to light shade

Origin: South Africa

Growth Habits: Evergreen shrub, low growing, up to 18 inches tall (45 cm)

Watering Needs: Regular water in summer

The Natal Plum is a spiny South African shrub used as a hedge or free standing, it has interestingly formed branches and shiny deep-green leaves, offset by white and pink flowers. It grows quickly and tolerates a wide range of lighting conditions, making good barriers, hedges, low screens, and foundation plantings.

Blooming Habits:
White fragrant 2 inch flowers throughout the growing season.

Fruiting Habits:
In the fall, the plant bears a 2" egg-shaped red fruit that exudes a white astringent latex unless fully ripe. The fruit turns red when ripe, and can then be eaten out-of-hand but does make good cranberry-like preserves.