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Krohn Conservatory Bonsai #1 - Natal Plum

Scientific Name:

  • carissa grandiflora

Species

  • Natal Plum

This Natal Plum was donated by longtime Bonsai Society Member Dr. Aaron Perlman in 1996.

It is a mother/daughter composition in an informal upright style.

The pot is oval, brown in color, unglazed and 5 inches deep.

This small evergreen shrub from South Africa can be found on sand dunes and on the edges of coastal forests in the Eastern Cape and northwards to Natal and Mozambique. In South Africa, it is commonly known as the Natal plum or the large num-num.

Today the plant also grows commonly in southern Florida, and is cultivated in southern California and used widely as an ornamental in Central America and the Caribbean.

A traditional food plant in Africa, this little-known fruit has the potential to improve nutrition, boost food security, foster rural development, and support sustainable land care.
 

Germination Year
1975 (Age: 50 years)
In Training Since
1985 (40 years)
Acquired in
1996
Insect Control

It can be susceptible to mealy bugs and aphids.  Treat with horticultural oil or malathion.