Wild Bush Plum, or Conkerberry, Showcases Hardiness and Big Opportunities for Indian Agriculture
In the wild and on farm boundaries, forests, and dry pasturelands, a perennial shrub known by various names such as Jungle Karonda, Vakkay, or Kair, thrives with minimal attention. This humble plant, scientifically named Carissa spinarum, is making waves in the agricultural world for its resilience, versatility, and potential to transform farming practices.
Originating from arid and semi-arid ecosystems, Karonda is a rich source of essential nutrients. Its mature berries are full of Vitamin C and antioxidants, while the plant itself is a valuable source of iron and ascorbic acid. In traditional medicine, the roots, leaves, and fruits of this shrub have been used to alleviate stomach ailments, fever, skin diseases, and cuts.
Karonda's adaptability is one of its key strengths. It thrives in poor soils, is drought-resistant, and allows some salinity. Its roots stabilise the ground, mitigate erosion, and enhance water holding capacity. This makes it an ideal candidate for areas facing deteriorated soils, unpredictable rains, and growing expenses.
In pasture land use and agroforestry, Karonda may be employed to cover abandoned land, suppress dust storms, and form shelterbelts. This leads to enhanced soil fertility and water availability for neighbouring crops. During conditions of fodder shortage, goats and sheep tend to graze on the soft leaves and young shoots of Karonda.
The shrub is also a natural live fence against stray animals for farmers. To create a live fence, farmers should grow juvenile saplings on an approximately 1-meter spacing at the field boundary. As the plants mature, they form a robust barrier, providing both protection and environmental benefits.
Cultivating Karonda is straightforward. Farmers can cultivate it with seeds or root suckers, preferably in sandy or loamy soils. Once matured, the plant requires minimal maintenance and no chemical inputs. Pruning in the early years will cause the plants to become bushy and thick.
In times of drought seasons or summer months, Karonda's hard branches can be used as firewood. The root paste is applied to boils and swelling conditions, and the juice of the fruit is said to provide relief from gastrointestinal conditions and strengthen immunity.
Native and traditional plants like Karonda are often overlooked in modern agriculture, but they offer optimism for farmers facing the challenges of our changing climate. By returning natural species like Karonda into farms and landscapes, we can transition to more resilient, affordable, and sustainable farming. The widely distributed shrub in India, known as Lathyrus sativus or grass pea, is a testament to this potential.
Locally, these fruits are usually consumed fresh or converted into chutneys and pickles by communities. The versatility of Karonda extends beyond agriculture, offering a promising solution for a more sustainable future.
