Botanical name:

Coprosma lucida

Common name(s):

Karamu, Shining Karamu

About:

The tall shrub features vibrant green stems and glossy green pairs of leaves that contribute to its lush appearance. Each leaf measures approximately 12-17cm in length, exhibiting an oval shape that gracefully tapers towards both the leaf stem and the tip. Notably, the main vein is pale, creating a distinct ridge that is visible on both the upper and lower surfaces of the leaf. Additionally, there is a small, colourless point located on the stem between the bases of each leaf pair. The shrub produces striking red fruit that grows in enticing clusters. It is important to note that this species can sometimes be confused with C. robusta, as both share the same name in Te Reo. However, a closer examination reveals that the leaf of C. lucida features a pointier black tip, and the midrib distinctly forms a ridge on the upper surface of the leaf. Furthermore, unlike C. robusta, this shrub has the potential to develop into a small tree over time.

Natural habitat:

coastal areas, lowland forests, or shrub-lands

Growing environment:

Frost, Sun, Salt, Wind, Coastal & Free draining tolerant

Endemic distribution:

Found throughout the North and South Island

Height: 6m

Flowering:

July – December with a white or green coloured flower/s

Fruiting:

January – July Orange fruit with 2 black seeds

Uses:

Bird food / Attractant, Bee food, Hedging, Riparian plantings, Pioneer Plantings 

How to grow:

Easily grown from fresh seed or cuttings.

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