Coprosma brunnea
Coprosma brunneafam. Rhamnaceae
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Pl. A76E — Coprosma brunnea
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IOverview
Overview
Coprosma brunnea, commonly known as New Zealand coprosma or kākāpō podocarp, is a small shrub native to the South Island of New Zealand and the Chatham Islands. This plant thrives in moist environments with light soil and can tolerate both full sun and partial shade. Known for its edible fruit, it has gained recognition among local communities and gardeners alike. One distinctive feature of this plant is its ability to grow in a range of habitats from 7 to 10 on the hardiness scale, making it adaptable to various conditions.
Quick answers
What is Coprosma brunnea?
Coprosma brunnea, commonly known as New Zealand coprosma or kākāpō podocarp, is a small shrub native to the South Island of New Zealand and the Chatham Islands. This plant thrives in moist environments with light soil and can tolerate both full sun and partial shade.
Growingconditions · propagation · uses
VCultivation
Cultivation
Coprosma brunnea thrives in full sun to partial shade and prefers moist, light (sandy) or medium soil. It is hardy in zones 7-10 and can grow up to 0.1 meters tall. The fruit of this plant is edible. Ensure the soil remains consistently moist for best growth. SKIP
Light
Full sun, Partial sun/shade
Water
Moist
Soil
Light (sandy), Medium
Hardiness
7-10
Mature size
0.1 m tall
For first-time growers
How to grow Coprosma brunnea for the first time
8steps
Skip is a low-maintenance plant that's perfect for beginners looking to add some greenery without too much effort.
- 1
What you'll need
A young Skip plant, well-draining soil, and a container or garden bed.
- 2
Best time to plant
Plant Skip in spring when the weather is mild and stable.
- 3
Soil and container prep
Ensure your soil is light (sandy) with good drainage. For containers, use a mix of peat moss, perlite, and compost.
- 4
Sowing or transplanting
Transplant Skip from its nursery pot to the garden bed or a larger container if needed.
- 5
First two weeks
Water regularly to keep the soil moist but not waterlogged. Avoid direct sunlight for the first few days.
- 6
Ongoing care
Provide partial sun and regular watering, especially during dry spells. Prune lightly in spring to maintain shape.
- 7
Harvest or pruning
Prune Skip in late winter or early spring to encourage new growth and maintain its size.
- 8
Common mistakes
Overwatering, planting in full sun, and neglecting regular pruning are common pitfalls for beginners.
VIEdible & utility
Edible & utility
Edible parts:Fruit
Edible uses: Coffee
Other uses:DyeGround cover
Contextrange · companions · related
VIIDistribution
3 native · 0 introduced
Distribution
3 native · 0 introducedDistribution across0 continents· 3 native
Broader regions
native:New Zealand South, Chatham Is., New Zealand North
IXSpecimen gallery
1 image
Specimen gallery
1 imageXSee also
8 related
See also
8 relatedPlants you might compare or use together — scored by shared family (Rhamnaceae), common use cases, and growing requirements.
same family · Rhamnaceae
Botanical relatives — often share phytochemistry + growing needs.
XI
Explore further
Companion planting
Compare with similar plants
Growing zone
XII
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