Green Carpet Natal Plum

Carissa macrocarpa 'Green Carpet' is an excellent, low-growing, evergreen, dense shrub with small, glossy green leaves. Fragrant, white star-shaped flowers appear almost year round intermittently followed by bright red, oval-shaped fruits. Drought resistant and tolerant of seaside conditions. Green Carpet Natal Plum is a tough, low-maintenance, fast-growing plant that is useful as a groundcover or can be sheared into a low hedge.

Green Carpet Natal Plum is a low-growing, evergreen shrub that is popular for its glossy foliage, fragrant white flowers, and low-maintenance care. Here’s a guide to planting and caring for Green Carpet Natal Plum:

Choose the Right Location

• Sunlight: Green Carpet Natal Plum thrives in full sun but can also tolerate partial shade. It will produce more flowers and have denser foliage in sunny locations.
• Climate: This plant is best suited to warm, coastal climates (USDA Zones 8-11). It’s highly tolerant of salt spray and wind, making it ideal for coastal gardens. In colder climates, it can be grown in containers and brought indoors during the winter.

Prepare the Soil

• Well-Draining Soil: Green Carpet Natal Plum prefers well-draining soil and can tolerate a range of soil types, from sandy to loamy soils. It can handle slightly acidic to neutral pH levels.
• Soil Amendments: If the soil is heavy and tends to hold water, amend it with sand or organic matter to improve drainage.

Planting Process

1. Dig a Hole: Dig a hole that’s about twice as wide and the same depth as the root ball of the plant. This will allow the roots to spread out and establish more easily.
2. Place the Plant: Remove the Green Carpet Natal Plum from its container and gently loosen the roots if they are compacted. Place the plant in the hole so that the top of the root ball is level with the surrounding soil.
3. Backfill and Water: Fill the hole with soil, pressing it down gently to remove air pockets. Water thoroughly to help settle the soil around the roots.

Spacing

• Proper Spacing for Ground Cover: If planting multiple Natal Plums as a ground cover, space them about 3-4 feet apart. This allows them to spread and create a dense, lush carpet over time.

Mulching

• Apply Mulch: Spread a 2-3 inch layer of mulch (such as bark, wood chips, or compost) around the base of the plant. Mulching helps retain moisture, regulate soil temperature, and suppress weeds. Keep the mulch a few inches away from the stems to prevent rot.

Watering

• Water Regularly Until Established: During the first growing season, water the Green Carpet Natal Plum regularly to help it establish a strong root system. After the plant is established, it is quite drought-tolerant and will need less frequent watering.
• Drought-Tolerant Once Established: Reduce watering frequency after the plant is established. Let the soil dry out between waterings, as overwatering can lead to root rot.

Benefits of Green Carpet Natal Plum

• Fragrant Flowers: The plant produces small, star-shaped, white flowers that have a pleasant fragrance. The blooms appear sporadically throughout the year, especially in warmer months.
• Edible Fruit: Green Carpet Natal Plum can produce small, red, plum-like fruits that are edible when fully ripe. They have a sweet-tart flavor and can be used in jams or jellies.
• Low-Maintenance: Its drought tolerance, pest resistance, and low pruning requirements make it a favorite for gardeners seeking a low-maintenance plant.
• Evergreen Foliage: The shiny, dark green leaves provide year-round interest, creating a lush, green carpet even when the plant is not in bloom.