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Last Updated: Feb 6, 2017 - 2:32:04 PM |
This
is the Natal Plum one of my favorite exotic fruits, found on the
island, grown on the Carrissa Shrub. People tend to use the Carrissa as a
shrub for many reasons
as it is a beautiful plant, a great defense against thieves, and has rich dark
leaves; but let's talk about the fruit. Although beautiful it does come
with a few minor elements you should know about....
1. The Green fruit
is quite poisonous so try not to consume this fruit unless it has
ripened.
2. It is bright red in color when ripened so you'll know when
it is edible.
3. If you want to plant the seeds remember that the pods
are not the seeds, the seeds are inside and there are usually about 4-6
seeds inside. It's taste is quite similar to the strawberry and it is
quite nutritious.
4. Some species have fruity flavours with overtones of
strawberry or apple.
5. They are said to be rich in Vitamin C, calcium,
magnesium and phosphorus.
6. The fruit is also used to make jelly.
7.
Various birds eat Carissa fruit and distribute the seed.
8. If eaten
before fully ripe, a bitter, poisonous latex is released from the skin.
Other than the ripe fruit, the plant is poisonous.
We ate this fruit a lot as
kids here on the island, and old folks knew of it and its poisonous
qualities. Sadly not many people speak of the Carrissa anymore. It is
also used for medicinal purposes. I have seen this plant growing at my
friend Keith's place and I've seen it at The Ol' Freetown Farm as well. They have quite a big tree on their farm which I enjoyed thoroughly the
last time I was there.
It's an excellent fruit to enjoy, and I hope I've helped educate a few people that didn't know of
this beautiful shrub and fruit.
About the Author:
Luckner Timothee is a backyard Farmer in Grand Bahama since starting
his garden a few years ago he has wooed his friends with his produce and
creative farming ideas. He continually learns from his friends and
family about the process of farming and the struggles that a farmer goes
through daily. He is now working on a Web show called “Let’s Grow
Bahamas” to be released on “Grand Bahama Backyard Farmers”. He is
attending seminars in order to meet other farmers around the world and
to further his knowledge about Farming. To contact Luckner Timothee
email him at:
bahamasfarmers@live.com
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