Taxonomy

Division:

Magnoliophyta | - Flowering plants

Family:

Apocynaceae

Genus:

Carissa

Species:

Carissa macrocarpa

Growth Characteristics

Life Cycle:

Perennial

Growth Habit:

Tree

Height:

4-6 ft

Light Requirements:

Full Sun

Drought Tolerance:

Medium

Bloom Months:

mar, apr, may, jun, jul, aug

Bloom Colors:

pink, red, white

Landscaping Shrub:

Yes

Native Range

United States: Florida, Guam, Puerto Rico, Texas, U.S. Minor Outlying Islands

Host Plant for Caterpillars

Soil Requirements

Soil Type:

sandy, well-drained, nutrient-rich soil

pH:

5.5 - 7.5 (slightly acidic to neutral)

Drainage:

excellent drainage required

Moisture:

dry to moderate

Notes:

native to coastal dunes, tolerates salt spray