How to Grow Coprosma 'Inferno'
Wikimedia Commons
Coprosma 'Inferno'
Coprosma × propinqua 'Inferno'
shrubCoprosma 'Inferno' is a compact, evergreen ornamental shrub prized for its striking foliage that displays brilliant shades of orange, red, and burgundy, especially in cooler temperatures and bright light. This New Zealand native is a hybrid cultivar that combines ornamental appeal with easy care requirements, making it popular for landscape design and container growing. The plant produces small white flowers followed by colorful berries in autumn.
When should you plant Coprosma 'Inferno' in your zone?
Get a personalized planting timeline — when to start seeds, transplant, and harvest — based on your USDA zone and local frost dates. Free to start.
Example Coprosma 'Inferno' timeline · Pittsburgh, PA (Zone 6b)
-
Plant Coprosma 'Inferno'
Around Apr 17Near Pittsburgh's average last spring frost.
-
Tend & protect
Late spring–summerWatering, feeding, and pest-watch reminders.
-
Harvest Coprosma 'Inferno'
Late summer into fallBefore the first fall frost (≈ Nov 8)
Sample dates for Pittsburgh, PA. Sign up to get exact Coprosma 'Inferno' dates for your own zip code.
Growing Conditions
Soil
Growing Zones
Find your zone →Thrives in zones 9-11; can survive zone 8b with protection in mild winters
Sign up free to see if Coprosma 'Inferno' grows in your zone — and get a personalized planting timeline.
Get my Coprosma 'Inferno' timeline →Growth Stages
Establishment
2-4 weeksYoung transplant with developing root system; foliage may be less vibrant than mature plant
Water regularly to establish roots. Avoid heavy fertilization initially. Provide bright light to encourage color development. Protect from strong winds.
Vegetative Growth
3-6 monthsShrub develops branching structure; small green leaves emerge; foliage begins showing warm tones in response to light and temperature
Pinch back branch tips to encourage bushier growth. Apply balanced fertilizer monthly during growing season (spring-summer). Maintain consistent moisture.
Color Intensification
Ongoing, most vibrant in fall/winterMature foliage displays brilliant orange, red, and burgundy coloration; colors deepen in cooler temperatures and with increased light exposure
Ensure full sun exposure for maximum color intensity. Cooler nighttime temperatures (below 65°F) enhance red and orange pigmentation. Reduce nitrogen fertilizer to avoid excessive green growth that masks color.
Flowering & Fruiting
Spring flowering; berries develop through summer-fallSmall white or cream-colored flowers appear in spring; followed by small orange or red berries in autumn if female plants are present or with nearby pollinators
No special care needed. Flowers are secondary to foliage appeal. Berries are ornamental but not edible.
Maintenance
Indefinite; can live 10-15+ yearsMature shrub (typically 3-4 feet tall and wide) maintains colorful foliage year-round; may require pruning to maintain shape
Prune after bloom or in early spring to maintain desired shape and size. Remove any dead or damaged branches. Reduce watering in winter. Maintain bright light conditions.
Companion Planting
Plan your garden →Plant with:
Avoid planting near:
Common Pests
-
Spray with neem oil or insecticidal soap; increase humidity to discourage; regular misting helps
-
Remove with rubbing alcohol on a cotton swab; apply insecticidal soap spray; isolate infested plants
-
Prune out heavily infested branches; apply horticultural oil spray in early spring; manual removal with brush
-
Yellow sticky traps; neem oil or insecticidal soap spray; increase air circulation
Uses
Ornamental Garnish
CulinaryWhile not edible, the vibrant foliage is used by floral designers and landscapers for decorative arrangements and visual displays. [source]
Ornamental Landscaping
HouseholdCoprosma 'Inferno' is a premium choice for adding color contrast to gardens, landscapes, and tropical/subtropical designs. The dramatic foliage works well as a focal point or accent plant in mixed borders. [source]
Floral & Craft Arrangements
CraftThe colorful branches and foliage are highly valued in floral design and craft projects for adding warmth and visual interest to mixed bouquets and compositions. [source]
Ornamental Berries for Birds
WildlifeThe small berries produced in autumn provide food for birds and wildlife, supporting local ecosystems while adding additional seasonal interest to the landscape. [source]
Harvest Tips
Not applicable - ornamental shrub. Prune branches for floral arrangements or design purposes in spring or early summer. Remove dead or diseased wood anytime.
Fun Facts
- 🌱 Coprosma 'Inferno' is a New Zealand native shrub whose name comes from the Maori word 'Kawakawa.' The genus contains over 12 species, many with colorful foliage.
- 🌱 The intensity of the orange and red coloration is directly related to sunlight exposure and temperature; plants in warmer, shadier locations will display more green tones, while those in full sun with cool nights show the most dramatic 'inferno' colors.
- 🌱 Coprosma is sometimes called 'mirror plant' because of the glossy, reflective quality of some species' leaves, though 'Inferno' emphasizes vibrant pigmentation over this characteristic.
Gardening Terms
New to gardening? Learn about terms used in this guide:
Join 30,000 gardeners planning their gardens with LizPlants.
Get your personalized Coprosma 'Inferno' planting timeline
Tell us your zip code and we'll calculate exactly when to start Coprosma 'Inferno' seeds, transplant seedlings, and harvest — based on your USDA zone and local frost dates. Includes calendar reminders and printable task lists. Free to start.
Get my Coprosma 'Inferno' timeline →