How to Grow Coprosma
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Coprosma
Coprosma repens
shrubCoprosma is a versatile evergreen shrub native to New Zealand, valued for its vibrant foliage that ranges from green to burgundy, orange, and yellow depending on variety and light exposure. It's a hardy, low-maintenance plant that works well as hedging, screening, or ornamental specimens in landscapes. The plant produces small flowers followed by colorful berries that attract birds and wildlife.
When should you plant Coprosma in your zone?
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Example Coprosma timeline · Pittsburgh, PA (Zone 6b)
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Plant Coprosma
Around Apr 17Near Pittsburgh's average last spring frost.
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Tend & protect
Late spring–summerWatering, feeding, and pest-watch reminders.
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Harvest Coprosma
Late summer into fallBefore the first fall frost (≈ Nov 8)
Sample dates for Pittsburgh, PA. Sign up to get exact Coprosma dates for your own zip code.
Growing Conditions
Soil
Growing Zones
Find your zone →Thrives in zones 9-11; can survive in protected microclimates in zone 8
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Get my Coprosma timeline →Growth Stages
Establishment
4-8 weeksYoung transplants with initial root development and foliage acclimation to landscape
Water regularly (every 2-3 days) to establish roots. Shelter from strong winds. Apply mulch around base, keeping it 2 inches from stem. Avoid transplanting shock by planting in spring or early fall.
Vegetative Growth
3-6 monthsActive foliage expansion with new shoots and leaf development; foliage color intensifies
Maintain consistent moisture. Prune lightly to encourage branching and bushier form. Fertilize monthly with balanced slow-release fertilizer during spring and summer. Monitor for leggy growth.
Flowering
6-8 weeks (spring to early summer)Tiny, inconspicuous greenish or white flowers appear in leaf axils and branch tips
Flowers are self-fertile but require cross-pollination from another coprosma plant for berry production. Maintain regular watering and nutrition. Do not heavily prune during flowering to preserve berry set.
Fruiting & Berry Development
3-6 monthsSmall round berries develop in shades of orange, red, white, or purple depending on variety; berries persist on plant
Continue regular watering and feeding. Berries are ornamental and attract birds; protect from excessive bird damage if desired. Berries persist for several months, extending visual interest.
Maturity
Ongoing (years 2+)Established shrub at full height and width; year-round ornamental interest with foliage color, flowers, and berries
Prune annually after fruiting to maintain desired shape and size. Reduce fertilizer to light applications. Coprosma tolerates hard pruning for rejuvenation. Susceptible to frost damage in zone 8; provide winter protection.
Companion Planting
Plan your garden →Plant with:
Avoid planting near:
Common Pests
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Inspect regularly; remove by hand or spray with horticultural oil in early spring; treat with insecticidal soap for heavy infestations
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Spray with neem oil or insecticidal soap; improve air circulation; isolate affected plants
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Increase humidity with regular misting; spray with water to dislodge; use neem oil or miticide if severe
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Yellow sticky traps to monitor; spray with insecticidal soap or neem oil; encourage natural predators
Uses
Landscape Screening & Hedging
OrnamentalCoprosma's dense, evergreen growth and vibrant foliage make it excellent for privacy hedges, windbreaks, and ornamental screening. Its colorful varieties add visual interest beyond typical green hedging plants. [source]
Bird & Pollinator Habitat
WildlifeThe small flowers attract bees and other pollinators, while the colorful berries provide food for birds and wildlife. Coprosma supports biodiversity in gardens and landscapes. [source]
Cut Foliage & Floral Arrangements
CraftThe colorful, long-lasting foliage is highly valued by florists and crafters for fresh and dried arrangements. Variegated and colored varieties add texture and color to bouquets and decorative displays. [source]
Container & Specimen Planting
HouseholdCoprosma performs well in large containers on patios and decks, providing year-round color and visual interest. Compact varieties work well for smaller spaces and can be brought indoors briefly in cold climates. [source]
Foliage Color Variation with Light
OrnamentalCoprosma's foliage intensifies in color with increased sunlight exposure; cool seasons also enhance color saturation. This dynamic color-changing quality makes it a living landscape feature that shifts seasonally. [source]
Harvest Tips
Coprosma is not harvested for food; berries are ornamental only. For ornamental berry display, avoid pruning flowering branches in spring. Foliage can be cut for floral arrangements year-round.
Fun Facts
- 🌱 The name 'Coprosma' comes from Greek words 'kopros' (dung) and 'osma' (smell), referring to the unpleasant odor of the foliage when crushed—though modern ornamental varieties have been selected for improved scent.
- 🌱 Coprosma foliage color is highly influenced by light intensity and temperature; plants grown in full sun display much more vibrant colors (reds, oranges, purples) than those in shade, which remain predominantly green.
- 🌱 Native to New Zealand, Coprosma is part of the Rubiaceae family (coffee family) and has been used in traditional Māori medicine and horticulture for centuries.
Gardening Terms
New to gardening? Learn about terms used in this guide:
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