Carissa haematocarpa
The Karoo Num-num is an evergreen, multi-stemmed and densely branched shrub or small tree growing up to 2m high, covered by multitudes of pronged spines that may be up to 4-5cm long, growing in the Little and Great Karoo and along the lower reaches of the Orange River and its tributaries. The tiny flowers, borne in Spring and Summer, are carried in clusters at the end of the branches. The fruit are similarly tiny – about 5mm in diameter – and are purple to black when ripe (while edible, they will stain your teeth the same colour!).
The Karoo Num-num is used as a fodder plant by game and livestock, especially during periods of drought. Though a slow grower, the plant is a good addition to a water-wise garden due to its drought resistance, and it attracts birds and beneficial insects like bees and butterflies.
Some authorities consider the Karoo Num-num to be the same species as the Forest Num-num, which we’ll be showcasing in the next post on DeWetsWild.
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