Botanical name:

Coprosma tenuicaulis

Common name(s):

Swamp coprosma, hukihuki

About:

An erect and bushy shrub characterised by its long, thin twigs, which are uniquely adorned with pairs of thin, rounded leaves that emerge on short, flattened leaf stalks. This vibrant plant commonly inhabits wetland sites where moisture is plentiful. The leaves exhibit a mottled appearance, measuring approximately 8-13mm in length. Additionally, a small tuft of longer, fine hairs can be observed on a hairy stem that resides between the bases of the leaves, and occasionally, a small dark tooth may also be present. The skin of the fruit displays a striking dark reddish-black to black hue, while the flesh inside is a deep, dark purple colour.

Natural habitat:

Lowland (rarely montane) in swamps and boggy ground, poorly drained shrub-land and riparian forest.

Growing environment:

Frost, Sun, Shade, Wetland, Wind & Free draining tolerant.

Endemic distribution:

North and South Islands from Kaitaia to about Okarito

Height: 3m

Flowering:

July – October with a white coloured flower/s

Fruiting:

March – May with dark reddish-black to black fruit.

Uses:

Bird food / Attractant, Bee food, Riparian plantings & Forests.

How to grow:

Easy from fresh seed and semi-hardwood cuttings. An attractive shrub to small tree that does well in dappled light. Although it flourishes in swamps it is easily grown in poorly draining or free draining soils, in full sun or partial shade.

** Seed germinates without pre treatment. 4 weeks cold stratification will help speed this up though