Coprosma ciliata

Botanical name: Coprosma ciliata
Synonyms: Coprosma myrtillifolia
Common name(s): Hairy coprosma

About:
A highly variable evergreen shrub endemic to New Zealand, recognised by its slender branching habit, tiny hairy leaves and colourful berries. The species ranges from upright and bushy forms to low spreading shrubs, with leaves fringed by fine hairs that give rise to its name. It is especially common in southern New Zealand and on the subantarctic islands, where it tolerates cool, exposed conditions.

Natural habitat:
Lowland to montane forests, forest margins, shrublands and grasslands, often near streams, swamps and lakes.

Growing environment:
Prefers cool climates, full sun to partial shade and moist but well-drained soils. Tolerates frost, wind and exposed sites, making it suitable for upland and southern gardens.

Endemic distribution:
Endemic to New Zealand. Found from the Tararua Range southwards through the South Island and Stewart Island/Rakiura, and also on the Auckland, Campbell and Antipodes Islands.

Height:
1–3 m, occasionally taller

Width:
1–2 m

Flowering:
October–November, occasionally to January

Fruiting:
February–May

Uses:
• Native shrub borders
• Forest restoration projects
• Shelter and habitat planting
• Wildlife gardens
• Coastal and southern gardens
• Mixed native shrub plantings

Appearance:

Growth habit:
A variable shrub ranging from erect and bushy to spreading or occasionally almost prostrate. Branches are slender and often wide-angled, with young branchlets covered in fine hairs.

Leaves:
Leaves are borne in opposite pairs on short hairy stalks. They are thin, broad-ovate to oval or oblong, usually 10 mm long but occasionally reaching 20 mm. The upper and lower surfaces are softly hairy, particularly along the margins and midrib. Small pits (domatia) are often present on the underside where veins meet.

Flowers:
Tiny green flowers are produced singly in the leaf axils. Male flowers lack a calyx and have a funnel-shaped corolla, while female flowers possess small triangular calyx teeth and a bell-shaped corolla divided into pointed lobes.

Fruit:
Produces fleshy berries that vary in colour from white and yellow through orange and pink to purplish-red. The flesh is often coloured as well as the skin, unlike several similar species. Fruits are globose to oblong and about 6–7 mm in diameter.

Ecology:
The colourful drupes are eaten by birds, which disperse the seeds throughout forest and shrubland habitats. The species is an important component of southern New Zealand ecosystems and provides shelter and food for native wildlife. On the subantarctic islands it is adapted to strong winds, cool temperatures and harsh conditions.

Associated habitats:
Lowland forest, montane forest, shrubland, tussock grassland, stream margins, swamp edges and subantarctic shrub communities.

How to grow:
Plant in full sun or partial shade in moist, free-draining soil. It is hardy to frost and wind and thrives in cool climates. Minimal pruning is required, although trimming can be used to maintain shape.

Propagation:
Usually propagated from fresh seed or semi-hardwood cuttings. Seed germinates readily when fresh, and cuttings root well under sheltered conditions.

Cultural use:
As one of New Zealand’s diverse Coprosma species, hairy coprosma contributes to the traditional ecological knowledge of native forests and shrublands and forms part of the country’s distinctive southern flora.

Garden value:
A hardy and adaptable shrub valued for its fine-textured foliage, hairy leaves and colourful fruit. Particularly suited to southern gardens, naturalistic plantings and restoration projects where it provides year-round interest and wildlife value.