Coprosma foetidissima
Coprosma foetidissimafam. Rubiaceae
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Pl. E4C7 — Coprosma foetidissima
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IOverview
Overview
Coprosma foetidissima, commonly known as the stink tree, is a shrub native to New Zealand and the Antipodean Islands. It thrives in moist environments with light or partial sun exposure, growing up to 5 meters tall. This plant is notable for its edible fruit, which makes it valuable both ornationally and for its culinary uses. Despite its unpleasant odor, the stink tree is an important part of New Zealand's native flora, found across the North and South Islands. Its light-loving nature and preference for sandy or medium soil make it adaptable in various garden settings.
Quick answers
What is Coprosma foetidissima?
Coprosma foetidissima, commonly known as the stink tree, is a shrub native to New Zealand and the Antipodean Islands. It thrives in moist environments with light or partial sun exposure, growing up to 5 meters tall.
What is Coprosma foetidissima used for?
Traditionally used for digestion, immune support. Each claim is evidence-rated — see Section II for full citations.
Best for
Top 2 evidence-ranked uses of Coprosma foetidissima
Clinicaluses · safety · chemistry · dosagemedicinal profile
IIBenefits & evidence
2 claims · 0 sources
Benefits & evidence
2 claims · 0 sources- Coprosma foetidissima has been traditionally used in New Zealand for digestive issues, often prepared as a decoction to soothe the stomach and aid digestion.
The mechanism is not fully characterised but may involve compounds that interact with gut motility or reduce inflammation in the gastrointestinal tract.
- In traditional Māori medicine, Coprosma foetidissima is used to support the immune system and may be prepared as a tea for its purported benefits.
The mechanism is not fully characterised but could involve antioxidant or anti-inflammatory compounds that help modulate immune responses.
IV·bMixology suggestions
1 draft
Mixology suggestions
1 draftEditorial drafts. These pairings are AI-suggested from traditional herbal lore. Always verify with a qualified herbalist before brewing.
Coprosma foetidissima support blend
generaltea
AI returned a direct ingredient list; normalized into one draft blend for editorial review.
Growingconditions · propagation · uses
VCultivation
Cultivation
Coprosma foetidissima thrives in full to partial sun and prefers moist, light (sandy) or medium soil. It is hardy in zones 8-11, making it suitable for temperate regions. The plant grows up to 5 meters tall and produces edible fruit. Ensure the soil remains consistently moist to support healthy growth. For propagation, consider using cuttings or seeds.
Light
Full sun, Partial sun/shade
Water
Moist
Soil
Light (sandy), Medium
Hardiness
8-11
Mature size
5.0 m tall
For first-time growers
How to grow Coprosma foetidissima for the first time
8steps
Start with planting Skip in a sunny spot and follow these simple steps for success.
- 1
What you'll need
Skip plants, well-draining soil, mulch.
- 2
Best time to plant
Plant Skip in spring or early fall when temperatures are mild.
- 3
Soil and container prep
Ensure the soil is light (sandy) to medium with good drainage. Amend if necessary.
- 4
Sowing or transplanting
Transplant Skip from a nursery pot into your garden bed, ensuring roots are not damaged.
- 5
First two weeks
Water regularly to keep the soil moist but not waterlogged. Monitor for signs of stress.
- 6
Ongoing care
Provide full sun or partial shade and regular watering. Prune lightly in late winter to maintain shape.
- 7
Harvest or pruning
Prune Skip in late winter to encourage new growth and maintain size.
- 8
Common mistakes
Overwatering, planting in heavy soil, neglecting to prune.
VIEdible & utility
Edible & utility
Edible parts:Fruit
Edible uses: Coffee
Other uses:DyeFragrance
Contextrange · companions · related
VIIDistribution
3 native · 0 introduced
Distribution
3 native · 0 introducedDistribution across0 continents· 3 native
Broader regions
native:Antipodean Is., New Zealand North, New Zealand South
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 (Rubiaceae), common use cases, and growing requirements.
same family · Rubiaceae
Botanical relatives — often share phytochemistry + growing needs.
XI
Explore further
Companion planting
Health goals
Compare with similar plants
Growing zone
XII
About this entry
- Last updated
- Citation
- How to cite this entry · Submit a correction
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