Konkleberry, Conkerberry, Currant bush, Kunkerberry, Aperlap, Perlap
Carissa lanceolata

Family: Apocynaceae

What it is like

A small shrub. It grows 1-2 m high. It spreads 1 m wide. The leaves are opposite and sword shaped. There are a pair of spines at the base of each leaf. Leaves are 2-4 cm long by 1 cm wide. They are bright green. The flowers are white and have a sweet smell. They are about 0.6 cm across. They occur in small clusters at the ends of branches. The fruit are berries which are oval and black. They are about 0.6 cm long. The fruit are edible.

There about 20-37 Carissa species. All Carissa species bear edible fruit. They grow in the tropics and subtropics.

Where it is found

A tropical plant. It grows in dry inland districts in tropical regions of Australia. It grows from sea level to 900 m altitude. It can tolerate arid conditions and grow in stony soils. It can tolerate fire and drought. It can grow in arid places. It suits hardiness zones 11-12.

Countries/locations it is found in

Australia (country/location of origin)

How it is used for food

The fruit are eaten. They are also used for jams and deserts.

Edible parts

Fruit

How it is grown

Plants can be grown from seed or cuttings.

Its other names

Local names

Kulyukulyumi, Mangudja, Marrayn, Narmanburu, Putpara

Synonyms

Carissa brownii F. Muell.; Carissa velutina Domin;