Carissa Green Carpet Star

Description:
Carissa 'Green Carpet Star' is a low-growing, evergreen ground cover known for its dense, glossy green foliage and fragrant, star-shaped white flowers. This hardy, drought-tolerant shrub is perfect for creating lush, green carpets in gardens, borders, or large containers. Its compact, spreading habit makes it ideal for low-maintenance landscaping, especially in dry or coastal conditions.

Flowers:
In spring and summer, 'Green Carpet Star' produces small, star-shaped white flowers that are fragrant and attract bees and other pollinators. The blooms appear intermittently throughout the year, adding seasonal interest to the garden.

Foliage:
The plant features small, dark green, leathery leaves that are glossy and densely packed along the stems. This foliage remains vibrant throughout the year, providing an attractive, low-maintenance ground cover that thrives in hot and dry conditions.

Fruit:
After flowering, 'Green Carpet Star' may produce small, oval-shaped, red fruits that mature to black. These berries are primarily ornamental but can attract birds to the garden.

Form and Size:
'Green Carpet Star' has a low, spreading growth habit, typically reaching a height of 20 to 30 cm with a spread of 1 to 1.5 meters. Its compact form makes it perfect for ground cover, borders, and rock gardens.

Growing Conditions:
This plant thrives in full sun to partial shade and is highly adaptable to various soil types, including sandy and well-drained clay soils. It is drought-tolerant once established and can withstand coastal conditions, making it ideal for seaside gardens. Regular watering during extended dry periods will promote lush growth, but it is generally low-water once established.

Uses:
Perfect as a ground cover, border plant, or in rock gardens, Green Carpet Star is also suitable for mass plantings in dry, sunny areas. It works well in containers and hanging baskets, where its trailing habit can be showcased. Its dense, spreading form makes it an excellent choice for erosion control on slopes and embankments.

Maintenance:
This plant is relatively low-maintenance. Light pruning after flowering can help maintain its shape and encourage denser growth. Fertilize in early spring with a slow-release, balanced fertilizer to enhance foliage and flower production. Generally pest and disease-resistant, it requires minimal care once established.

Notes:
Green Carpet Star is valued for its low-growing, spreading habit and fragrant flowers. Its resilience in dry and coastal environments makes it a versatile choice for water-wise gardens and low-maintenance landscapes.

Companion Plants:
Pairs well with other drought-tolerant plants like Westringia, Lavender, and Grevillea. It also complements succulents and ornamental grasses for a cohesive, low-water garden design.

Common Name: Green Carpet Star
Botanical Name: Carissa 'Green Carpet Star'
Family: Apocynaceae
Origin: Horticultural hybrid

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