Carissa carandas is a thorny evergreen shrub native to India and surrounding South Asian regions. It produces small, oval berries that ripen from green to pink, purple, or nearly black and are commonly used for pickles, jams, chutneys, and preserves.
 
Common names: Karonda, Karaunda, Koromcha, Bengal currant, Christ's thorn, Carandas plum, Black currant of India, Cranberry tree.
 
Growing & germination
Sow seeds: Fresh seeds give the best germination.
Depth: Cover with about 0.5–1 cm of soil.
Temperature: Around 25–30°C is ideal.
Germination: Usually 2–6 weeks, sometimes longer.
Soil: Well-draining, moderately fertile soil.
Light: Full sun for vigorous growth and better fruiting.
Water: Keep evenly moist during germination; established plants are relatively drought tolerant.
Tip: Soaking seeds in water for 12–24 hours before sowing can help speed up germination.
 
It is also an excellent thorny hedge plant, particularly suited to warm climates.