Natal Plum Tree

The Natal plum is a pretty green shrub native to tropical and Southern Africa. The plant has lovely glossy green leaves and produces snow white fragrant flowers. It also produces a nutritious plum like fruit.

Natal Plum Varieties

• Boxwood Beauty: This is a thornless variety that is often used as a ground cover. It has white flowers and matures at about 24 inches tall and wide.
• Emerald Blanket: A low, spreading dwarf cultivar that is often used as a ground cover shrub.
• Fancy: A standard upright form with upright, large fruit.
• Nana: Thornless dwarf cultivar grows to only 12 to 18 inches tall and wide and has white flowers.
• Tomlinson: Another standard-sized thornless variety.
• Variegata: Cream to yellow variegation.

Is Natal Plum Poisonous?

This plant is related to the poisonous Oleander. Indeed the leaves of the Natal plum are toxic and should not be consumed. However, the fruit is edible.

Growing Natal Plum

You should plant your seedling in soil that drains well. Indeed this plant is known to grow well in sandy soil.

The Natal plum is forgiving of poor soil, as long as it is well-drained. While these plants prefer a slightly acid or neutral pH, they tolerate slightly alkaline soil. Consequently, they have proven to do well near coastal areas.

Natal Plum Propagation

Natal Plum Water

You should not need to water your plant during the wet season. For the balance of the year you should water once every few weeks, depending on the variety and soil.

However, make sure you do not overwater, because this plant is susceptible to root rot. Consequently, it is good if your soil dries out completely between waterings. Therefore good drainage is very important and remember, the Natal plum is fairly drought-tolerant.

Fertilise

You should use a fertiliser that is equal parts of nitrogen, phosphorus, and potassium. Indeed fertilising will help maintain plant health and promote fruiting.

Natal Plum Diseases

We have had no problems with pests or diseases. However, aphids can be a problem. This can be managed by applying Neem oil. Indeed this is a great organic way to keep pests at bay.

This plant can have fungal problems, but that can be avoided by ensuring you do not over-water.

Natal Plum Fruit

The plant produces small fruits. When cut, the red-fleshed interior releases flecks of milky white sap and has a juicy texture similar to a common plum. The flesh also encases brown oval-shaped seeds, each about the size of a small almond.

Natal plums emit a sweet, subtly floral scent akin to jasmine or orange blossoms and are edible raw. They taste like cranberries. Consequently they are often used in jellies and jams.

Natal Plum Benefits

A traditional food in Africa, this fruit can improve the nutrition of those who consume it.

The plum is extremely high in Vitamin C. Consequently, it is known to boost the immune system and support the health of teeth and gums. The fruit is also rich in calcium, magnesium and phosphorus.

Furthermore, the potassium in the fruit helps to regulate blood pressure and improves muscle function. In addition, the magnesium is good for your heart.

Other Tropical Fruits

• Black Sapote
• Custard Apple
• Dragon Fruit
• Grumichama
• Guava Tree
• Jaboticaba
• Kumquat Tree
• Mamey Sapote
• Mulberries
• Natal Plum
• Passion Fruit
• Paw Paw
• Rambutan
• Star Apple
• Watermelon

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