Carissa ovata
Currant Bush
Apocynaceae
Description:
Prickly shrub to 3m, and slender, with milky sap, in drier rainforests and eucalypt forest. Leaves opposite, to 4cm. Paired spines between leaf bases. 5-petalled perfumed white flowers to 10mm in summer. Edible, oblong, black fruits to 15mm.
Special Features:
Highly valued for its edible berries, dense structure, and ability to thrive in harsh conditions. Acts as a vital host plant for the larvae of the Common Crow (Euploea corinna) and Australian Crow butterflies, while also providing habitat for small birds.
Natural Habitat:
Dry Eucalypt Forest
Aspect:
Full Sun, Partial Sun/Shade
Soil/Conditions:
Adaptable, Well-drained
Tree/Shrub Height:
Shrub to 3m
Attracts:
Bird habitat, Lizards, Butterflies, Fauna, Nectar feeding Bird, Fruit eating birds
Flower Colour:
White
Carissa ovata - Currant Bush
Gallery
Regional ecosystem:
12.2.2, 12.2.11, 12.3.1, 12.9-10.11, 12.11.3, 12.11.3a, 12.9-10.15, 12.11.13, 12.8.21, 12.9-10.6, 12.8.23
