Botanical name:

Coprosma brunnea

Common name(s):

Brown-stemmed coprosma

About:

Coprosma brunnea is a remarkable native ground cover species that flourishes in various environments, ranging from lowland areas to the higher montane river beds, as well as open grassland and rocky places. This plant is characterised by its flexible brown stems, which form a tangled mass, accompanied by narrow and sparse leaves that lend it a unique appearance. During the flowering season, which occurs from September to December, very small flowers develop, followed by the emergence of astonishingly bright blue berries in the autumn months. This versatile species is not only aesthetically pleasing but also trims well in a home garden setting, making it an excellent choice for adding texture, or it can gracefully sprawl over banks and swales, enhancing the landscape in which it is planted.

Natural habitat:

Lowland to Alpine to 1500m. Often common on stony riverbeds and terraces but also in subalpine scrub and occasionally on open rocky sites in tussock-herb fields.

Growing environment:

Frost, Sun, Shade & Wind tolerant.

Endemic distribution:

New Zealand’s South and Stewart Islands. Nelson and the drier regions or central and eastern South Island.

Height: 2m

Flowering:

September-December with a yellow coloured flower/s

Fruiting:

February-June with a streaked purple fruit.

Uses:

Bird food / Attractant, Bee food, Riparian plantings & Pioneer Plantings.

How to grow:

Easy from fresh seed, semi-hardwood cuttings and rooted pieces. Prefers free draining soil in a sunny position.

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