1x Coprosma Rugosa

Coprosma rugosa

Common Names: Rugose Coprosma, Shiny Coprosma
Family: Rubiaceae
Origin: New Zealand
Plant Type: Evergreen Shrub

Overview:

Coprosma rugosa is a robust, fast-growing native shrub known for its glossy, richly textured leaves and dense, bushy habit. Ideal for hedging, screening, or as a structural specimen, it adds vibrant green colour and a glossy shine to gardens year-round. Its hardiness and adaptability make it a reliable choice for a variety of garden conditions.

Key Features:

Foliage: Glossy, dark green leaves with prominent veins and a wrinkled (rugose) texture. Evergreen and dense, creating excellent privacy and windbreak screens.

Flowers / Fruit: Small, inconspicuous greenish flowers in spring followed by bright orange to red berries that attract native birds.

Form & Habit: Dense, upright, and spreading shrub with a natural rounded shape.

Growth Rate: Moderate to fast

Cultural & Ecological Value: Provides valuable food for native birds and habitat for insects. Commonly used in restoration plantings and shelterbelts.

Mature Size:

Ideal Growing Conditions:

Landscaping & Garden Uses:

• Hedging & Screening: Ideal for fast-growing privacy screens and windbreaks

• Native & Wildlife Gardens: Supports native birds with berries and dense cover

• Erosion Control: Useful on slopes and embankments due to root structure

• Mixed Borders & Foundations: Adds texture and glossy green colour

• Coastal & Urban Sites: Tolerant of salt spray and pollution

Care & Maintenance:

Pruning: Prune lightly after flowering or as needed to maintain shape and encourage bushiness.

Watering: Water during dry periods, especially when young. Drought tolerant once established.

Feeding: Feed with balanced fertiliser in early spring to promote healthy growth.

Pests & Diseases: Generally pest-free, occasionally affected by scale insects.

Additional Tips: Mulch to retain moisture and suppress weeds. Good companion plant with other natives and low-maintenance shrubs.

Fun Fact / Botanical Insight:

The species name rugosa refers to the wrinkled texture of its leaves, a distinctive feature that helps it stand out among other Coprosmas.

Why Choose Coprosma rugosa?

With its glossy foliage, bird-friendly berries, and adaptability to a range of conditions, Coprosma rugosa is an excellent all-rounder for gardeners seeking a resilient, attractive native shrub for hedging, screening, or wildlife gardens.

Pot Size:

These are our standard size in 7cm square pots.