Status:
valid
Authors:
L.
Source:
wcs
Year:
1771
Citation Micro:
Mant. Pl. 2: 559 (1771)
WFO Identifier:
wfo-0000803913
Common Names
- Carissa spinarum
- Spiny Carissa
- Spiked Carissa
Description
Carissa spinarum (also called Spiny Carissa, among many other common names) is a shrub or small tree with glossy, dark green leaves and white, fragrant flowers. It is native to the coastal regions of South Africa and is found in a variety of habitats, including rocky outcrops, coastal scrub and woodlands.
Uses & Benefits
Carissa spinarum is used as an ornamental plant and for its timber. It is also used in traditional medicine for treating skin diseases, fever, and pain.
Flower, Seeds and Seedlings
The flower of Carissa spinarum is a small, white flower head, with a single spikelet. The seed is a small, brown, three-sided nut. The seedlings have a single, narrow, pointed leaf.
Cultivation and Propagation
Carissa spinarum is a shrub that can be propagated by seed or cuttings. Seeds should be sown in a well-drained, sandy soil mix and kept moist. Cuttings should be taken in the spring and rooted in a light, sandy soil mix. The plant prefers full sun and should be protected from strong winds.
Where to Find Carissa spinarum
Carissa spinarum is native to tropical and subtropical regions of Africa, Asia, and Australia.
Carissa spinarum FAQ
What is the scientific name of Carissa spinarum?
Carissa spinarum
What is the common name of Carissa spinarum?
Spiny Carissa
What is the natural habitat of Carissa spinarum?
It is found in dry, rocky areas and in disturbed habitats.
Species in the Carissa genus
Species in the Apocynaceae family
Acokanthera laevigata,
Acokanthera oblongifolia,
Acokanthera oppositifolia,
Acokanthera rotundata,
Acokanthera schimperi,
Adenium boehmianum,
Adenium multiflorum,
Adenium obesum,
Adenium oleifolium,
Adenium swazicum,
Adenium dhofarense,
Aganosma breviloba,
Aganosma cymosa,
Aganosma gracilis,
Aganosma lacei,
Aganosma petelotii,
Aganosma schlechteriana,
Aganosma siamensis,
Aganosma wallichii,
Aganosma heynei,
Alafia alba,
Alafia barteri,
Alafia benthamii,
Alafia berrieri,
Alafia calophylla,
Alafia caudata,
Alafia erythrophthalma,
Alafia falcata,
Alafia fuscata,
Alafia insularis,
Alafia intermedia,
Alafia landolphioides,
Alafia lucida,
Alafia microstylis,
Alafia multiflora,
Alafia nigrescens,
Alafia orientalis,
Alafia parciflora,
Alafia pauciflora,
Alafia perrieri,
Alafia schumannii,
Alafia thouarsii,
Alafia vallium,
Alafia verschuereni,
Alafia whytei,
Alafia zambesiaca,
Allamanda calcicola,
Allamanda angustifolia,
Allamanda blanchetii,
Allamanda cathartica,