Carissa ovata

Kunkerberry, Currant Bush

Apocynaceae

 Form and Size: A small shrub, 1-2m high; stems carrying simple or forked spines.

Distribution: North-eastern Qld. to north-eastern N.S.W.; generally in moist forest areas.

Leaves: Opposite, egg-shaped or rounded, may be blunt or pointed, leathery, held stiffly from the branch, shiny green, 1-3cm x 0.5-1.5cm.

Flowers: White, perfumed, 5 petals, about 0.6cm diameter borne in stalked, upright clusters from the upper leaf axils.

Flowering Period: October to December.

Fruit: Berries, black, egg-shaped, 1-1.5cm long.

Cultivation/Notes: Propagate from seed or cuttings. A hardy plant which may be grown in both coastal and inland areas.
Prefers a shaded position and needs supplementary watering. Fruit are edible and quite tasty.