Carissa macrocarpa is a hardy, drought resistant, dense, spiny shrub to small tree with large leathery, dark green, glossy leaves. It has beautiful, scented, white flowers that are followed by edible red fruits almost all year round. It attracts butterflies and fruit eating birds to the garden. The ‘Y’ shaped thorns make this an ideal shrub for a security hedge.

It can withstand some frost. It is best to plant in a protected spot on the Highveld.