Carissa macrocarpa - Flora of Qatar

Arduina grandiflora, Arduina macrocarpa, Carissa africana, Carissa carandas, Carissa grandiflora, Carissa praetermissa, Jasminonerium africanum, Jasminonerium grandiflorum, Jasminonerium macrocarpum

Common names

Extract from Wikipedia article

Carissa macrocarpa (Natal Plum), is a shrub native to South Africa, where it is commonly called the Large Num-Num. In Zulu, as well as in the Bantu tribes of Uganda, it is called amatungulu. In Afrikaans the fruit is called Noem-Noem.[+]

C. macrocarpa deals well with salt-laden winds, making it a good choice for coastal areas. It is commonly found in the coastal bush of the Eastern Cape and Natal. It produces shiny, deep green leaves and snowy white flowers whose perfumed scent intensifies at night. Like other Carissa species, C. macrocarpa is a spiny, evergreen shrub containing latex. They bloom for months at a time. The ornamental plump, round, crimson fruit appears in summer and fall (autumn) at the same time as the blooms. In moderate, coastal areas the fruits appear through the year. The fruit can be eaten out of hand or made into pies, jams, jellies, and sauces. Some claim that other than the fruit, the plant is poisonous. However this claim is a myth, possibly based on similarities to other plants with milky sap. The California Poison Control System rates the plant as mildly toxic. It appears in the South African National tree list as number 640.3.

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

AI-generated Description

Carissa macrocarpa, also known as the Natal plum or Amatungulu, is an evergreen shrub native to southern Africa. In Qatar, it has been introduced and naturalized, commonly found in urban landscapes and coastal areas. Studies have reported its presence in various regions of Qatar, including Doha and the northern coast. The plant's adaptability to the country's arid climate and tolerance to high temperatures make it a popular choice for ornamental purposes. However, its invasive potential and ability to outcompete native vegetation have raised concerns among local conservationists.

AI-generated summary of observations

The plant Carissa macrocarpa has been observed in various locations in Qatar. In Al Shamal City Park, Ruwais, a bush of natal plum was seen on April 3, 2015, indicating the plant's ability to thrive in the park's conditions. Later, on November 20, 2015, a flower of the same species was spotted in the same park, suggesting that the plant is capable of blooming in Qatar's climate. Additionally, fruit from the natal plum was observed on June 10, 2016, at the Museum of Islamic Art Park in Doha, further confirming the plant's ability to produce fruit in Qatar. These observations provide insight into the growth and development of Carissa macrocarpa in Qatari environments. The sightings span different seasons, from spring to summer, highlighting the plant's adaptability. Overall, the observations suggest that Carissa macrocarpa can grow and thrive in various locations across Qatar.

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Acknowledgements

QNHG (Qatar Natural History Group) and associated people, for a possibility to participate in their field excursions and to learn about local nature.

Carissa macrocarpa (Eckl.) A. DC.

Synonyms