Carissa

Carissa is a genus of evergreen, spiny shrubs and small trees in the Apocynaceae family. The genus includes several species native to tropical and subtropical regions of Africa, southern Asia, and Australasia. Members typically have glossy leaves, fragrant white flowers with a five-lobed corolla, and berries that mature to yellow, orange, or red. Carissa species are widely cultivated as ornamental plants and hedges in warm climates, and some are grown for their edible fruit.

Two well-known species are Carissa macrocarpa (Natal plum), native to South Africa and commonly used in landscaping, and Carissa carandas (karonda or Christ's thorn), native to the Indian subcontinent and widely used in traditional cuisine. The fruits of several Carissa species are edible when ripe and are used in jams, pickles, chutneys, or as flavoring agents. All species contain a milky sap and possess sharp thorns; handling should be careful, especially when pruning.

Carissa is also a feminine given name in English-speaking countries. It is often understood as deriving from Greek elements meaning or associated with “grace” or “beloved.” Notable people with the name include Carissa Moore, an American professional surfer and Olympic gold medalist.