Loading…
Carissa Emerald Blanket is a low-growing evergreen shrub that provides dense ground coverage. Ideal for sunny slopes, borders, and Southwest Florida landscapes.
| Mature Height: | 1-2 ft. |
|---|---|
| Mature Width: | 4-6 ft. |
| Sunlight: | Full Sun to Part Sun (4–8+ Hours) |
| Water Needs: | Low to Moderate |
| Growth Rate: | Moderate |
| Botanical Name: | Carissa macrocarpa ‘Emerald Blanket’ |
| Grows Well In Zones: | USDA Zones: 9-11 |
Carissa Emerald Blanket – Evergreen Groundcover for Sunny Landscapes
Forms a dense, spreading layer of green foliage that stays low to the ground. Suitable for foundation beds, slopes, and coastal landscapes.
Carissa Emerald Blanket is a low-growing evergreen shrub in the Carissa macrocarpa family, also known as Natal Plum. It typically reaches 1–2 feet tall and spreads 3–5 feet wide. In Southwest Florida, it is commonly used for groundcover beds, foundation plantings, coastal landscapes, and sunny slopes.
This shrub grows best in full sun to partial shade and well-drained soil. It adapts to sandy conditions and tolerates heat and coastal salt exposure. Full sun generally encourages denser foliage.
For groundcover plantings, space Carissa Emerald Blanket approximately 3–4 feet apart, depending on the starting plant size and desired coverage. Its spreading branches gradually fill open spaces between plants.
Newly planted Carissa Emerald Blanket needs regular watering while its roots become established. Mature plants tolerate dry periods and generally require additional watering only during extended drought. Avoid areas where water collects after heavy rainfall.
Carissa Emerald Blanket has a slow to moderate growth rate and requires little pruning. Trim branches as needed to maintain the desired planting area. Small white flowers may appear, although this variety is mainly grown for its evergreen foliage.
Why You'll Love It
Wide Ground Coverage: Spreads approximately 3–5 feet while remaining low, helping fill landscape beds without the height of larger shrubs.
Dense Evergreen Growth: Develops a thick layer of glossy green foliage that covers open soil and helps reduce space available for weeds.
Coastal Tolerance: Handles sandy soil and salt exposure, making it suitable for coastal landscapes in Southwest Florida.
Drought Tolerance: Established plants tolerate dry conditions and require less frequent irrigation than many moisture-loving groundcovers.
Sun Requirements: Grows in full sun to partial shade, with brighter sunlight generally supporting denser foliage.
Water Needs: Requires regular watering during establishment. Once mature, provide additional irrigation during extended dry periods.
Mature Size: Approximately 1–2 feet tall and 3–5 feet wide, depending on growing conditions.
Best Uses: Coastal landscape beds, low groundcover areas, sunny slopes, large foundation beds, mass plantings, and landscape islands.
No reviews yet. Be the first to write one.
