Botanical name:

Coprosma rugosa

Common name(s):

Needle-leaved mountain coprosma

About:

Coprosma rugosa is a stiff, erect native shrub found in New Zealand that exhibits tangled orange new growth, creating a striking appearance. This resilient plant features clusters of small, green leaves that add to its unique charm. It commonly forms interlacing thickets in various habitats, including grasslands and forest margins, thriving in lowland to subalpine areas. During the spring season, the shrub bears inconspicuous flowers, which are then followed by small blue berries that are especially loved by birds, providing a vital food source in its ecosystem.

Natural habitat:

Found in grasslands and forest margins up to the subalpine zone.

Growing environment:

Frost, Drought & Wind tolerant.

Endemic distribution:

North & South Islands of New Zealand.

Height: 2m

Flowering:

Spring with a white or yellow coloured flower/s

Fruiting:

Autumn with small blue berries.

Uses:

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

How to grow:

Easily grown from fresh seed.

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