Originating from tropical and southern Africa, the shrub flourishes primarily in desert or dry shrubland biomes and  adaptable to various environments including seaside locales due to its tolerance to ocean wind and salt spray. Cultivated extensively for its ornamental displays of white, star-shaped, fragrant flowers that bloom year-round. These blooms later give way to oval fruits, resembling plums in size, which transition in color from green to red or purple upon ripening. The fruit's flesh, known for its raspberry or cranberry-like flavor, can be enjoyed raw or transformed into delightful jams and jellies. Photographed in Florida.