Gymnospermum

carissa spinarum

Also known as: ["Carissa carandas","Carissa macrocarpa"]

Family: Apocynaceae Genus: Carissa Category: Shrubs

Overview

A thorny, evergreen shrub native to tropical and subtropical regions, known for its small, fragrant flowers and edible berries.

Benefits & Perks

["edible fruits","fragrant flowers","wildlife attractant (bees, butterflies, birds)","drought tolerant"]

Botanical Classification

Phylum: Magnoliophyta
Class: Magnoliopsida
Order: Gentianales
Family: Apocynaceae
Genus: Carissa
Botanical Name: Carissa spinarum

Plant Characteristics

Basic Information
  • Category: Shrubs
  • Suitable Location: outdoor garden bed or container in a sheltered, sunny spot
  • Suitable For:
    Collectors & Enthusiasts Outdoor Landscapers Wildlife Supporters
  • Is Weed: No
  • Allergenicity: low
Environmental Needs
  • Climate: {"temperatureRange":"10–35°C"}
  • Hardiness: {"zones":"9–11"}
  • Misting: rarely required, only if ambient humidity is very low
  • Drainage: Fast-draining to prevent waterlogging.
  • Soil Type: Well-draining, loamy soil with added organic matter; tolerates poor soils but thrives with enrichment.
Maintenance Level
  • Maintenance Level: moderate
  • Toughness Level: high
  • Pruning Frequency: Annually in late winter or early spring before new growth begins.
  • Pruning Intensity: Moderate; remove up to one-third of old growth to rejuvenate the plant.
Care Details

Ideal Sunlight Coverage:
Full sun to partial shade; 6–8 hours of direct sunlight daily; tolerates some afternoon shade in hot climates.

Sunlight Tolerance Tips:
Acclimate new plants to full sun gradually; protect from intense midday sun to prevent leaf scorch; adjust placement based on seasonal light changes.

Warning Signs: Yellowing leaves, root rot, or stunted growth indicate poor soil drainage or nutrient imbalance.

Care Requirements

Care Difficulty
moderate

moderate

Sunlight

full sun to partial shade

Rotate plant for even light exposure; use sheer curtains to filter intense sun; move outdoor plants to shaded areas during peak heat.

Watering

every 7–10 days during active growth, reduce in winter

Water thoroughly until it drains from the bottom; allow soil to dry between waterings; avoid overwatering.

Soil

well-drained, sandy loam with moderate organic content

pH: Slightly acidic to neutral, pH 6.0–7.0.

Ensure good drainage; amend with organic matter; avoid waterlogged conditions.

Temperature

Thrives in warm conditions, 65–85°F (18–29°C); tolerates mild frosts but prefers stable temperatures above 50°F (10°C).

Protect from frost; avoid sudden temperature fluctuations; maintain consistent warmth for optimal growth.

Fertilizing

every 4–6 weeks during growing season

Fertilize in spring before new growth; avoid over-fertilizing to prevent root burn; flush soil occasionally to prevent salt buildup.

Propagation

Methods

Stem cuttings; semi-hardwood cuttings root most reliably.

Step-by-Step Propagation Guide
  1. Take 4–6 inch cuttings.
  2. Remove lower leaves.
  3. Dip in rooting hormone.
  4. Plant in medium.
  5. Keep moist and warm.

Best Time: Late spring to early summer when the plant is actively growing.

Environment

Warm, humid environment with indirect light; maintain 70–75°F (21–24°C) and high humidity.

Medium

Well-draining mix of perlite and peat moss or cactus mix.

Hormone

Rooting hormone is recommended to improve success rates.

Timeline

Roots develop in 4–8 weeks; new growth appears in 2–3 months.

Tools Needed

Pruning shears, rooting hormone, small pots, misting spray bottle.

Quick Tips

Use healthy, disease-free cuttings; maintain consistent moisture; provide bottom heat for faster rooting.

Pruning & Repotting

Pruning Guide
Method

Selective thinning of branches; heading back to encourage denser growth.

Pruning Plan

Shape the plant, encourage bushier growth, and remove dead or diseased wood.

Tools

Pruning shears, loppers, gloves, disinfectant for tools.

Checklist

Disinfect tools; prune dead or crossing branches; shape the plant; clean up debris after pruning.

Repotting Guide
Best Season

Early spring before active growth starts.

Pot Size

Increase pot size by 2–3 inches in diameter; avoid oversized pots.

Method

Remove plant gently; trim roots if necessary; repot in fresh, well-draining soil; ensure proper drainage.

Suggestions

Repot every 2–3 years or when roots fill the container; beneficial for root health and growth.

Checklist

Choose appropriate pot; prepare fresh soil mix; inspect roots; water after repotting.

Advanced Care Tips

Watering Mastery
Watering Checklist

Check soil moisture before watering; water deeply; ensure drainage; adjust frequency seasonally.

How to Apply Water Properly

Water at the base of the plant, ensuring moisture reaches the root zone; water early in the day to minimize evaporation; ensure excess water drains away to prevent waterlogging.

Pro Tip: Use a watering can with a narrow spout to direct water precisely to the root zone without wetting foliage.
Watering Schedule Tips

Water deeply once the top inch of soil feels dry; reduce frequency in winter to prevent root rot.

Soil Improvement

Add compost or well-rotted manure for fertility; mix in perlite or sand for drainage; avoid heavy clay soils.

Temperature Stress Management
Signs of Temperature Issues

Leaf drop, wilting, or browning edges in cold stress; yellowing leaves or stunted growth in heat stress.

Cold Stress

Growth slows or halts; leaves may turn yellow or drop; susceptible to frost damage in temperatures below 28°F (-2°C).

Solution: Move to a sheltered location or indoors during cold spells; apply a thick layer of mulch to insulate roots; use frost cloth for outdoor protection.

Hot Stress

Wilting, leaf scorch, or reduced flowering due to excessive heat and dry conditions.

Solution: Provide shade during peak heat; increase watering frequency; mist foliage to cool the plant; ensure good air circulation.

Fertilizing Guide
Fertilizing Checklist

Choose appropriate fertilizer; apply at correct dilution; fertilize during active growth; avoid winter feeding.

Fertilizing Method

Use a balanced, slow-release fertilizer in spring; dilute liquid fertilizer to half-strength monthly during growing season; reduce or stop in winter.

Common Problems & Solutions

Yellow leaves in Carissa spinarum may indicate nutrient deficiencies, overwatering, or pest infestations such as mealybugs, which disrupt nutrient uptake and photosynthesis.

Wilting in Carissa spinarum can be caused by water stress, either due to overwatering leading to root rot or underwatering causing dehydration, both of which impair the plant's ability to transport water.

Leaf spots on Carissa spinarum may be caused by fungal or bacterial infections, leading to reduced photosynthetic efficiency and potential defoliation if left untreated.

Rotting in Carissa spinarum is often associated with root or stem rot caused by excessive moisture and poor drainage, leading to decay of plant tissues and potential death of the plant.

Toxicity Warning

Cats
Slightly Toxic

Cats that consume Carissa spinarum berries may experience mild gastrointestinal irritation. The toxicity is generally low, but ingestion can still cause discomfort and should be avoided.

⚠️ Symptoms:
vomiting diarrhea loss of appetite
🌿 Toxic Parts:
berries
⚡ Toxic If:

if eaten

Keep Carissa spinarum berries away from cats. If a cat ingests the berries, observe for symptoms and seek veterinary advice if necessary.
Dogs
Slightly Toxic

Ingestion of Carissa spinarum berries by dogs can lead to mild gastrointestinal upset. The toxic compounds present in the berries may cause discomfort but are not typically life-threatening unless consumed in large amounts.

⚠️ Symptoms:
vomiting diarrhea lethargy
🌿 Toxic Parts:
berries
⚡ Toxic If:

if eaten

Prevent dogs from accessing the berries. If ingestion occurs, monitor the animal for symptoms and consult a veterinarian if severe or persistent symptoms develop.
Humans
Slightly Toxic

Carissa spinarum berries contain toxic compounds that can cause mild gastrointestinal distress and discomfort when ingested in significant quantities. The physiological impact is generally limited to the digestive system, with no severe systemic effects typically observed.

⚠️ Symptoms:
nausea vomiting diarrhea abdominal pain
🌿 Toxic Parts:
berries
⚡ Toxic If:

if eaten

Avoid consuming the berries of Carissa spinarum. Keep them out of reach of children and ensure they are not mistaken for edible fruits.
Important: Keep this plant out of reach of children and pets. If ingestion occurs, contact poison control or veterinary services immediately.

Frequently Asked Questions

Q: Is Carissa spinarum toxic to pets?

A: It is mildly toxic to dogs and cats if ingested.

Q: Does Carissa spinarum attract wildlife?

A: Yes, it attracts bees, butterflies, and birds.

Q: Is Carissa spinarum drought-tolerant?

A: Yes, it is drought-tolerant once established.

Quick Reference
Family: Apocynaceae
Care: moderate
Light: full sun to partial shade
Water: every 7–10 days during activ
Suitable For: ["collectors/enthusiasts","outdoor landscapers","wildlife supporters (attracts bees, butterflies, birds)"]
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