Carissa macrocarpaDesert Star

The Carissa macrocarpa, or Desert Star, is a hardy evergreen shrub renowned for its compact growth habit, glossy green foliage, and fragrant, star-shaped white flowers. Native to South Africa, it blooms throughout the year in warm climates, producing small, edible, plum-like red fruit following the flowers. Growing to a manageable height of 1 to 2 metres, it is ideal for hedging, borders, or as a feature plant in gardens and containers.

Low-maintenance and drought-tolerant, Desert Star thrives in challenging conditions, making it a versatile and attractive choice for a variety of landscapes.

Specifications

• Height1 to 2 metres
• Width1 to 2 metres
• Native toSouth Africa
• FoliageDense, glossy green leaves; evergreen
• Growth rateModerate

Conditions

• SoilPrefers well-drained, sandy, or loamy soils; tolerates poor soils
• LightFull sun to partial shade
• WaterLow; drought-tolerant once established
• ClimateThrives in tropical, subtropical, and coastal regions

Additional Features

• FlowersFragrant, star-shaped white blooms year-round in warm climates
• FruitSmall, edible red fruit with a sweet-tart flavour; attracts birds
• UsesIdeal for hedging, borders, groundcover, or as a container plant
• SpacingPlant 0.8 to 1.5 metres apart for hedging or individual displays
• Low MaintenanceRequires occasional pruning to maintain shape and encourage flowering
• Pest ResistanceNaturally hardy and pest-resistant
• Drought ToleranceSuitable for low-water gardens once established
• VersatilityComplements Mediterranean, tropical, and cottage garden styles
• Wildlife AttractionFlowers and fruit attract bees, butterflies, and birds

The Desert Star is a resilient and ornamental shrub, perfect for adding year-round fragrance, greenery, and edible fruit to gardens and landscapes.