Genus Acocanthera is a plant genus that belongs to the Apocynaceae family. This genus is also known by several synonyms, including Carissa acocanthera, Carissa grandiflora, and Carissa macrocarpa. These synonyms refer to different species that were once believed to be part of the same genus, but have since been reclassified. The plants in this genus are native to Africa and are known for their toxic properties. They contain cardiac glycosides, which can be lethal if ingested in large amounts. Despite their poisonous nature, some species are used in traditional medicine for their therapeutic properties.