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Gardening with Gael: Hardy coprosma well suited to our coastal region


28 Feb, 2022

 

Coprosma robusta 1  IMG 1800x1800 copy-388At last, the opportunity to write about Coprosma rhamnoides which I was sure was one of my favourite coprosmas, and one I thought was growing in my old garden. With about 90 species of coprosma and around 45 species endemic to New Zealand it is no wonder I am having trouble identifying the ones I have.

Coprosma rhamnoides is a particularly divaricating shrub with dense twiggy branches. Found throughout New Zealand I discover that it actually prefers low woodland areas and in fact I have identified it growing well up at the Block which is more inland and ideally suited. They are not so fond of saline conditions. I may do well to dig up the rhamnoides I have and take it to The Block for a new home. It is doing well so far but I think it may do better in Hakaru. Growing around the edge of the bush is its preferred habitat. The twiggy branches and tiny round leaves are a real contrast to other shrubs.

Instead I think it is Coprosma crassifolia that I have. Coprosma crassifolia has a wide-ranging habitat from the coast to inland. Most importantly it needs dry conditions and that I can certainly provide.

This shrub also has small round leaves. Mine was planted close to a five finger (Pseudopanax lessonii). In fact, a five finger has grown itself next to it and the crassifolium branches through it creating a lovely contrast. The plant grows to one or two metres and I consider it to be a better specimen by the sea.

Another similar plant with the small shiny round leaves is Coprosma greensleeves. This coprosma has a more upright habit with spaces between the branches. I think it has quite an oriental look to it.

Coprosma repens also known as ‘taupata’ or ‘mirror plant’ because of the very shiny leaves, is commonly planted and also grown as a hedge. This variety is best pruned regularly. Box says his dad chopped it severely every year and it responded well. This was on the west coast near Wellington a tough climate for any plant.

Coprosma robusta, also known as ‘karamu’ is the very common wild coprosma. Once again, this very hardy plant with dark green oval leaves not as shiny as repens, grows rapidly up to 4 metres. To keep it from getting ‘leggy’ I severely prune once a year and the ‘tips’ clipped on other occasions to encourage a denser plant.

Coprosma lucida or ‘shining karamu’ is very similar to robusta but has a denser habit. I wrote about it last year. The hedge I planted is doing well and is less ‘leggy’.

Coprosmas are well suited to our coastal region and with the dry drought-prone summers they are a consideration in any garden.

TIP OF THE WEEK

Time to give the garden a good feed over the next few weeks before autumn. Flowering plants and vegetables are ready for a boost.

 


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