Coprosma Black Cloud

Coprosma ‘Black Cloud’

Common names: Black Cloud Coprosma

Family: Rubiaceae

Origin: New Zealand hybrid

Plant Type: Evergreen Shrub / Groundcover

Overview

Coprosma ‘Black Cloud’ is a compact, ground-hugging NZ native shrub prized for its dramatic deep purple-black foliage and dense, tidy form. Its colour intensifies through the cooler months, making it a standout year-round feature in modern gardens, rockeries, borders, and coastal landscapes.

Key Features

Foliage: Glossy small leaves turning rich purple-black, especially in winter; forms a dense, textural mat.
Flowers / Fruit: Tiny, inconspicuous flowers; primarily grown for its exceptional foliage colour.
Form & Habit: Low, spreading, cushion-like shrub—excellent for edging or mass planting.
Growth Rate: Moderate.
Cultural & Ecological Value: Provides shelter for insects and lizards; thrives in coastal and exposed environments.

Mature Size

Attribute	Size
Height	1m
Spread	1m
Form	Low, spreading, compact shrub

Ideal Growing Conditions

Requirement	Detail
Light	Full sun to part shade (best colour in full sun)
Water	Low; drought-tolerant once established
Soil	Free-draining soils; tolerates sand, gravel, and poor soils
pH Range	Neutral to slightly acidic
Frost Tolerance	Hardy; foliage colour deepens in cold

Landscaping & Garden Uses

• Striking colour accent or contrast plant

• Rockeries, gravel gardens, and low borders

• Coastal and exposed sites

• Mass planting for a dark, uniform carpet

• Excellent companion to flaxes, grasses, hebes, and silver foliage plants

Care & Maintenance

Pruning: Light trim annually to maintain shape if desired.
Watering: Minimal once established; water during the first growing season.
Feeding: Light spring fertiliser enhances colour and density.
Pests & Diseases: Typically pest-free and reliable.

Additional Tips

• Colour intensifies in winter and cooler climates.

• Avoid waterlogged soils to ensure dense, healthy growth.

• Works well as a natural groundcover alternative to mulch.

Fun Fact / Botanical Insight

Coprosma species are known for their highly glossy, reflective leaves—‘Black Cloud’ takes this to another level with its rare near-black tones, offering exceptional contrast in landscape design.

Why Choose Coprosma ‘Black Cloud’?

A dramatic, easy-care native groundcover delivering year-round richness and texture—perfect for modern gardens and tough sites requiring low maintenance.

Pot Size: These are our standard size in 7cm square pots.