Carissa macrocarpa
Desert 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.