It has a moderate-to-fast growth rate and is best planted in fall or winter.
Natal plum does best in sandy, well-draining soil.
It will also do fine in light shade but will likely not have as many flowers and fruits.
The Spruce / K. Dave
Soil
Natal plums are not picky about soil, as long as it drains well.
In general, these plants prefer aslightly acidicor neutral pH but will tolerate slightly alkaline soil.
These plants are salt-tolerant and do well near coastal areas.
The Spruce / K. Dave
ensure the soil dries out completely between waterings.
Good drainage is very important.
Natal plum is fairly drought-tolerant.
The Spruce / K. Dave
They are quite sensitive to cold.
These plants are equally tolerant of humid and dry air conditions, provided they get enough soil moisture.
Fertilizer
Use a fertilizerthat has equal parts of nitrogen, phosphorus, and potassium.
The Spruce / K. Dave
This will help maintain the shrub’s general health and promote fruiting.
For the amount to use, follow product label instructions.
Pick them from the shrub as soon as they achieve a dark red or purple color.
They will persist in a ripened state on the tree for several days without spoiling.
Pruning
you could shape Natal plum into a tree form or hedge through pruning.
Trimming will also prompt the shrub to produce more flowers and fruit.
Here’s how:
Potting and Repotting
Natal plums grow well in containers on patios and balconies.
Smaller varieties make great houseplants.
Common Pests & Plant Diseases
This shrub doesn’t suffer from many common pests or diseases.
You may see Florida red scale or aphids, which can be removed with horticultural soap.
Fungal infestation may occur if a Natal plum is overwatered, causing root rot.
What Do Natal Plums Flowers Look and Smell Like?
Each Natal plum flower features five waxy petals arranged in a star shape.
They are usually one ot three inches long and are formed along the branch in an opposite arrangement.
Natal plum flowers smell similar to orange blossoms.
How to Encourage More Blooms
Pruning encourages the shrub to produce more flowers and fruit.
This can also cause root rot.
Ensure that the soil is completely dry between waterings.
Wilting Leaves
While overwatering can damage the plant, underwatering can also cause leaves to wilt.
Once the soil has dried out, verify to water monthly to weekly depending on the variety.
Natal plum is a drought- and salt-tolerant shrub that grows well in coastal areas.
Most varieties have sharp spines, so it can work well as a barrier or hedge.
Depending on the variety, Natal plum can also be used as a ground cover or grown in containers.
Natal plums are also grown asbonsai plants.
Natal plum is not toxic to dogs or cats.
Yes, Natal plum can be grown from seed.
However, germination is somewhat unpredictable and can be slow.
Try soaking the seeds in water for 24 hours before sowing the seeds to speed up germination.
North Carolina State Extension.
