Natal Plum
Carissa macrocarpa 'Emerald Blanket'
Also known as: Natal Plum · Emerald Blanket Natal Plum · Carissa
Low-spreading coastal ground cover with white fragrant blooms and edible red fruit.
Southwest Florida
Growing Natal Plum in SWFL
Carissa macrocarpa 'Emerald Blanket' is a low-spreading cultivar ideal for SWFL coastal properties. Its dense, glossy foliage hugs the ground at 1–2 feet, making it excellent for slopes, bed borders, and areas needing salt-tolerant coverage. Fragrant white flowers bloom repeatedly, followed by edible red plum-like fruit. Thorny — use where foot traffic is not expected.
Plant Specifications
| Sun Exposure | Full sun to part shade |
|---|---|
| Water Needs | Low once established — very drought tolerant |
| Salt Tolerance | High — excellent coastal ground cover |
| Cold Hardiness | Zone 10a — frost sensitive |
| Mature Height | 1–2ft |
| Mature Spread | 4–6ft spreading |
| Growth Rate | Moderate |
Nursery stock photo
Live Inventory
Available Sizes
Frequently Asked Questions
Yes — Carissa macrocarpa is one of the few low-spreading ground covers with high salt tolerance, making it excellent for coastal slopes and bed borders near the Gulf. The Emerald Blanket cultivar stays compact at 1–2 feet, ideal where you need coverage without height.
Yes — the ripe red fruit is edible and has a sweet-tart flavor similar to cranberries. The fruit, leaves, and stems contain a milky latex sap — other parts of the plant are not edible. The thorns make it a natural barrier plant as well.
Natal Plum is in stock.
Call to confirm sizing and current availability.