Carissa macrocarpaGreen Carpet

The Carissa macrocarpa, commonly known as Green Carpet, is a low-growing, evergreen groundcover plant prized for its dense, dark green foliage and star-shaped white flowers. Growing up to 30 to 60 cm tall and spreading 1 to 2 metres wide, it forms a lush, glossy carpet that's ideal for covering slopes, filling garden beds, or edging pathways. The small, fragrant flowers bloom throughout the year in warm climates and are followed by small, edible red fruit.

Hardy and drought-tolerant, Green Carpet is a versatile and low-maintenance plant perfect for tropical and coastal gardens.

Specifications

• Height30 to 60 cm
• Width1 to 2 metres
• Native toSouth Africa
• FoliageDense, glossy green leaves; evergreen
• Growth rateModerate

Conditions

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

Additional Features

• FlowersSmall, white, star-shaped blooms with a sweet fragrance; blooms year-round in warm climates
• FruitSmall, red, edible berries add seasonal interest
• FormSpreading, ground-hugging habit with dense coverage
• UsesIdeal for groundcover, slopes, borders, pathways, or containers
• SpacingPlant 50 to 100 cm apart for dense coverage
• Low MaintenanceRequires minimal pruning; trim lightly to control spread if needed
• Pest ResistanceGenerally pest-free; hardy and resilient
• Drought TolerancePerforms well in water-wise gardens once established
• Coastal ToleranceThrives in salty, windy conditions, making it suitable for coastal gardens
• Wildlife AttractionFlowers attract pollinators, and fruit is enjoyed by birds
• VersatilityComplements tropical, modern, and coastal garden styles

Green Carpet is a reliable and attractive groundcover, perfect for adding lush greenery, erosion control, and year-round appeal to gardens and landscapes.