Licorice Plant vs Natal Plum Plant Comparison
Compare these two plants side by side — care needs, key differences, and which is right for your home.
Licorice Plant
Glycyrrhiza glabra
Glycyrrhiza glabra, commonly known as licorice, is a perennial herbaceous plant that grows to about 1 meter (3 feet) tall. It features pinnate leaves and pea-like flowers, typically purple to pale blue. The plant is primarily cultivated for its rhizomes and roots, which contain glycyrrhizin, a compound responsible for its characteristic sweet flavor. Licorice is mainly grown outdoors in well-drained soil and full sun. While it can be attempted indoors, it's challenging to replicate its ideal growing conditions, and it may not thrive.
Natal Plum
Carissa macrocarpa
Carissa macrocarpa, or Natal Plum, is a dense, evergreen shrub or small tree known for its glossy, dark green leaves and fragrant, star-shaped white flowers. It produces edible, plum-like red fruits that are rich in vitamin C. While it can be grown in containers, it's primarily an outdoor plant, thriving in warm climates. People grow it for its ornamental value, edible fruit, and use as a security hedge due to its thorny branches. It's not ideally suited as an indoor plant due to high light requirements and potential size.
Quick Plant Comparison
| Feature | Licorice Plant | Natal Plum |
|---|---|---|
| Light | Full sun (at least 6-8 hours of direct sunlight daily) | Full sun to partial shade. Requires at least 6 hours of direct sunlight daily to thrive and produce fruit. |
| Watering | Every 5-7 days during the growing season, less frequently in winter. | Every 7-14 days, depending on environmental conditions and pot size. |
| Humidity | 40-60% | 40-60% |
| Temperature | 15-27°C | 18-27°C |
| Care Level | Expert | Expert |
| Growth Rate | Moderate | Moderate |
| Max Height | 0.5-1 meter (indoors, likely smaller) | Indoors: Rarely exceeds 1-2 meters. Outdoors: Up to 4 meters. |
| Pet Safety | ❌ Toxic To Pets | ❌ Toxic To Pets |
| Soil | Well-drained loamy soil | Well-draining soil mix, such as a combination of potting soil, perlite, and sand. |
| Beginner Friendly | ❌ No | ❌ No |
| Weekly Maintenance | 30 minutes weekly (primarily for watering, weeding, and pest control). | 30 minutes weekly (including watering, pruning, and pest control) |
🔬 Botanical Information — Comparing These Plants
Licorice Plant
| Scientific Name | Glycyrrhiza glabra |
|---|---|
| Family | Fabaceae |
| Native To | Southern Europe and parts of Asia |
| Also Known As | Licorice, Liquorice |
| Leaves | The leaves are pinnately compound, typically consisting of 9-17 leaflets. Each leaflet is oval to lance-shaped, with a smooth margin and a slightly sticky texture. The leaves are generally green in color. |
| Flowers | Licorice produces pea-like flowers that are typically purple to pale blue. Flowering usually occurs in the summer months. It is unlikely to flower indoors due to insufficient light. |
Natal Plum
| Scientific Name | Carissa macrocarpa |
|---|---|
| Family | Apocynaceae |
| Native To | South Africa |
| Also Known As | Natal Plum, Large Num-Num |
| Leaves | The leaves are glossy, dark green, and oval-shaped, measuring 2-5 cm in length. They are arranged oppositely on the stems and have a leathery texture. |
| Flowers | Natal Plum produces fragrant, star-shaped white flowers in spring and summer. While it can flower indoors with sufficient light, fruit production is less common. |
📏 Size & Growth — Plant Comparison
Licorice Plant
Natal Plum
🌱 Propagation — Comparing Plant Growth
Licorice Plant
Methods: Seed, Rhizome division, Root cuttings
Difficulty: Moderate
Tips: For rhizome division, separate rhizomes in early spring and plant them in well-drained soil. Root cuttings should be taken in late fall or early winter and planted horizontally.
Natal Plum
Methods: Stem cuttings, Seed
Difficulty: Moderate
Tips: Take semi-hardwood cuttings in spring or summer. Dip the cut end in rooting hormone and plant in a well-draining potting mix. Keep the soil moist and provide warmth and humidity.
✨ Benefits & Features — Comparing Plant Value
Licorice Plant
The roots of Glycyrrhiza glabra contain glycyrrhizin, a compound that is significantly sweeter than sugar. This plant has a long history of use in both culinary and traditional medicine.
- ✓ Provides a unique flavoring agent for culinary uses.
- ✓ Has potential medicinal properties (consult a healthcare professional).
- ✓ Adds visual interest to a garden with its foliage and flowers.
- ✓ Can be a rewarding challenge for experienced gardeners.
- ✓ Supports biodiversity in a garden ecosystem.
- ⚠️ Toxic to pets
Natal Plum
The Natal Plum is unique for its combination of fragrant flowers, edible fruit, and thorny branches. Its drought tolerance makes it a suitable choice for xeriscaping.
- ✓ Provides edible fruit rich in Vitamin C
- ✓ Offers fragrant flowers that attract pollinators
- ✓ Acts as a natural security barrier due to its thorns
- ✓ Adds an ornamental touch to gardens with its glossy foliage
- ✓ Can be used in traditional medicine (with caution and expert knowledge)
- ⚠️ Toxic to pets
📅 Maintenance Schedule — Plant Care Comparison
Licorice Plant
Natal Plum
🌞 Light Requirements
Licorice Plant
Full sun (at least 6-8 hours of direct sunlight daily)
Low light tolerant: ❌ No
Natal Plum
Full sun to partial shade. Requires at least 6 hours of direct sunlight daily to thrive and produce fruit.
Low light tolerant: ❌ No
💧 Watering Needs
Licorice Plant
Water deeply when the top inch of soil feels dry to the touch. Avoid overwatering, which can lead to root rot. Signs of overwatering include yellowing leaves and a musty smell. Underwatering is indicated by wilting and dry, crispy leaves.
Natal Plum
Water deeply when the top inch of soil is dry. Avoid overwatering, which can lead to root rot. Allow the soil to dry slightly between waterings. Signs of underwatering include wilting leaves; overwatering includes yellowing leaves and soggy soil.
🌡️ Temperature & Humidity
Licorice Plant
Temperature: 15-27°C
Humidity: 40-60%
Natal Plum
Temperature: 18-27°C
Humidity: 40-60%
🤔 Which Plant Is Right For You?
Licorice Plant
Glycyrrhiza glabraExperienced gardeners who want to grow licorice outdoors for its roots, understanding its toxicity to pets.
✅ Choose This Plant If...
- You have a sunny outdoor garden space.
- You are interested in harvesting licorice root for culinary or medicinal purposes.
- You are an experienced gardener looking for a unique plant to grow.
- You understand the plant's toxicity to pets and can keep it away from them.
- You are prepared to provide the specific care this plant needs to thrive.
❌ Skip This Plant If...
- You have pets that might ingest the plant.
- You lack a sunny outdoor space.
- You are a beginner gardener.
- You are looking for a low-maintenance indoor plant.
- You are not prepared to manage the plant's potential for rhizomatous spread.
Natal Plum
Carissa macrocarpaExperienced gardeners in warm climates who want an ornamental shrub with edible fruit, and who can ensure it is kept away from pets.
✅ Choose This Plant If...
- You live in a warm climate with plenty of sunshine.
- You want an ornamental shrub with fragrant flowers and edible fruit.
- You need a natural barrier or security hedge.
- You are an experienced gardener looking for a new challenge.
- You are willing to provide the specific care this plant needs.
❌ Skip This Plant If...
- You have pets or small children due to the plant's toxicity.
- You live in a cold climate with limited sunlight.
- You are a beginner gardener.
- You don't have space for a large shrub.
- You are looking for a low-maintenance indoor plant.
🎯 Quick Verdict
⚡ Key Differences Between These Plants
Both plants have similar basic care requirements but differ in appearance and specific needs. Compare plants carefully to find the best fit for your space.
💡 Pro Tips For Comparing These Plants
Licorice Plant Care Tips
Licorice is primarily an outdoor plant and requires full sun and well-drained soil. Growing it indoors is challenging due to its high light requirements and potential for rhizomatous spread. It also poses a toxicity risk to pets. Indoor cultivation requires careful attention to light, watering, and potential toxicity.
- Provide well-drained soil to prevent root rot.
- Ensure at least 6-8 hours of direct sunlight daily.
- Monitor for pests like aphids and spider mites.
- Harvest licorice roots in the fall after 3-4 years of growth.
- Be mindful of its potential for rhizomatous spread and contain it if necessary.
Natal Plum Care Tips
Natal Plum is primarily an outdoor plant and requires significant sunlight to thrive. Growing it indoors is challenging due to its high light needs and potential size. It needs well-draining soil, moderate watering, and occasional fertilization. Toxicity to pets is a major concern.
- Provide at least 6 hours of direct sunlight daily for optimal growth and fruit production.
- Water deeply but infrequently, allowing the soil to dry slightly between waterings.
- Fertilize regularly during the growing season with a balanced fertilizer.
- Prune regularly to maintain shape and encourage new growth.
- Protect from frost in colder climates.
⚠️ Common Problems & Solutions — Plant Care Comparison
Licorice Plant
Natal Plum
❓ Frequently Asked Questions — Comparing These Plants
Licorice Plant
What are the light requirements for Licorice Plant?
Licorice Plant thrives in bright, indirect light. Too much direct sunlight can scorch the leaves, while insufficient light can lead to leggy growth and faded foliage color. An east-facing window is often ideal, providing gentle morning sun. A south- or west-facing window can also work, but be sure to filter the light with sheer curtains or blinds, especially during the hottest part of the day.
How do I care for Licorice Plant?
Licorice Plant thrives in well-draining soil. Water thoroughly when the top inch of soil feels dry, allowing excess water to drain. Provide bright, indirect light for optimal growth, though it can tolerate some direct sun, especially in the morning. These plants prefer moderate temperatures, ideally between 60-75°F (15-24°C). Fertilize lightly every 4-6 weeks during the growing season (spring and summer) with a balanced liquid fertilizer diluted to half strength.
How do I propagate Licorice Plant?
Licorice Plant is easily propagated through stem cuttings and layering. For stem cuttings, take a 4-6 inch cutting from a healthy stem, removing the lower leaves. Dip the cut end in rooting hormone and plant it in moist, well-draining potting mix. Cover with a plastic bag or humidity dome to maintain moisture. Keep in bright, indirect light until roots develop, usually within 2-4 weeks.
Natal Plum
What are the light requirements for Natal Plum?
Natal Plum requires ample sunlight to flourish and produce its characteristic blooms and fruits. Ideally, it should receive at least 6 hours of direct sunlight per day. In regions with intense sunlight, particularly during the hottest part of the day, providing some afternoon shade can prevent leaf scorch.
How do I care for Natal Plum?
Natal Plum thrives in full sun to partial shade. Ensure at least 6 hours of sunlight daily for optimal flowering and fruit production. Water thoroughly when the top inch of soil feels dry, allowing excess water to drain. Avoid overwatering, which can lead to root rot. Maintain moderate humidity, especially indoors.
How do I propagate Natal Plum?
Natal Plum can be propagated through stem cuttings. Take 4-6 inch stem cuttings from healthy, non-flowering shoots in spring or summer. Remove the lower leaves and dip the cut end in rooting hormone. Plant the cuttings in a well-draining potting mix. Keep the soil moist and provide bright, indirect light. Rooting typically occurs within 4-8 weeks.
Last updated: April 21, 2026 — Plant care data reviewed and verified by our editorial team.