Carissa macrocarpa or natal plum is a plant you're likely to encounter in the tropics as it's unusual in fulfilling various purposes. One, it's quite thorny and is often used as a barrier. Two, it takes to pruning very well and can be trimmed into a hedge shape without much trouble. Three, it's absolutely salt and wind proof. If you've ever been to the Halekulani in Waikiki, or walked past the beachfront restaurant, you've passed a manicured hedge of Carissa.
Finally, reason number four is the plant is quite attractive, as far as somewhat stiff hedge-like plants go. The pinwheels of white flowers look almost like jasmine and are faintly faintly fragrant.
All the time I spent walking past the specimen at the Halekulani, and damn if I can't find a photo of the plant's habit. I only have these close-ups from Puerto Rico. Next time, I promise.
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