Apocynaceae
Carissa tetramera
Four-spined Carissa
S
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This dense, thorny shrub is characterised by its rigid, four-pronged spines, offering excellent protective screening. It produces small, glossy red-purple fruits that are edible and attractive to birds.
Where it works in Kilifi
Ideal for creating impenetrable security hedges or robust specimen plants, it thrives in full sun and well-drained soils. Position it where its spiny nature is an asset, allowing sufficient space for its mature spread.
Growing notes
Exhibiting a moderate to fast growth rate, this hardy shrub is drought-tolerant once established and requires minimal watering. Exercise caution during handling due to its sharp, numerous spines.
Sources
Drafted from: Gemini 2.5 Flash. Please verify with local knowledge before relying on these notes.