Carissa ovata Apocynaceae

Kunkerberry, Currant Bush

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

Distribution: North-eastern Qld to north-eastern NSW; 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