Governor’s Plum (Carissa macrocarpa) Male

A beautiful evergreen shrub or small tree that produces fragrant white flowers followed by bright red edible fruit when pollinated by a nearby male plant. Ideal for hedging, screening, and home orchards, it is drought-tolerant once established and thrives in coastal and inland gardens.

Governor’s Plum is a tropical and subtropical tree or large shrub. Native to much of Africa and tropical parts of Asia, it thrives in warm, frost-free climates and is widely cultivated for its edible, sweet-and-tangy fruit.

Please note that our imported tropical plants may arrive smaller in size than expected. This is completely normal, as young plants are shipped to ensure they travel safely and establish well in their new environment. With proper care, warmth, and growing conditions, they will develop quickly and grow into strong, healthy, mature plants.

Scroll Down for the Growing information:

SKU: TROP-GPF-02 Categories: All Tropicals, Fruit Trees & Medicinal Plants, Governor's Plum-Flacourtia indica, Plum Trees

Description

Position

Requires full sun for optimal growth, flowering, and fruit production. It can grow up to 3–5 meters in height under ideal conditions.

Soil Type

Prefers well-draining loamy soil rich in organic matter with a pH between 5.5 and 7.5. Dig a planting hole approximately 60 x 60 cm and enrich with compost.

Give your plants the best possible start by adding a bag of Volcanic Rock Dust (R25 per bag) to the soil. Volcanic Rock Dust helps replenish essential minerals and trace elements that have been depleted from our soils over time.

We also recommend adding a bag of Superfrass (R25 per bag) when planting. Superfrass provides a natural source of NPK and micronutrients to encourage strong, healthy growth, while also helping to improve the plant’s natural resistance to pests.

Together, these products help create a nutrient-rich growing environment and give your plants the foundation they need to establish and thrive.

Water

Water regularly during establishment. Once established, the plant is highly drought-tolerant and performs well in regions with summer rainfall.

Pruning

Prune lightly after fruiting to maintain shape and encourage dense growth. Remove dead or damaged branches during winter.

Fertilising

Apply a slow-release nitrogen-rich all plant fertiliser sparingly every 4–5 months during the growing season to promote healthy growth and fruit production.

Mulching

Apply Pine Bark Mulch or organic mulch around the base to retain moisture, suppress weeds, and protect the root system.

Pests & Diseases

Generally pest-resistant. Regular applications of Agricultural Neem Oil or Effective Microorganisms (EM Control) can help prevent common garden pests.

Harvesting

Fruit ripens from green to bright red and is ready for harvesting when slightly soft to the touch. Harvesting typically occurs from late summer through autumn.

The sweet-tart fruit can be enjoyed fresh or used in jams, jellies, sauces, and desserts. Plant near a male Governor’s Plum for reliable pollination and fruit production.