Commonly found in the coastal areas of South Africa where it is also known as the large num-num.
Leaves - shiny deep green evergreen; grows to about 2-8 feet, bushy with 'y' shaped spines.
Flowers - star shaped - white perfumed.
Fruit - edible plum shaped, red. Slightly tart taste with shades of cranberry overtones or strawberries or ripe apple. Rich in vitamin c, calcium, magnesium & phospherous.
Flowers and fruits almost all year.
All parts of the plant are poisonous apart from the edible fruits.
Feed in spring with standard npk fertilizer. Prune to keep good shape and fruiting.
Where to plant - away from paths because of the spines
Problems - very few - almost pest free
Grows best in full sun. Drought resistant & hates to be waterlogged. Good for coastal areas as it will tolerate salt laden or any other winds. Slightly frost tolerant to -2°c but treat as frost tender. Ph tolerance 6.1 to 7.8
Very good all round bush Attractive -- productive -- versatile and good for security Propagation - by seeds or cuttings