Mirror Plant
Coprosma repens
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Pl. 0500 — Coprosma repens
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IOverview
Overview
Mirror Plant, scientifically known as Coprosma repens, is a low-growing shrub native to several islands in the Antipodes and New Zealand. This plant thrives in full sun to partial shade and prefers moist, light (sandy) to medium soil. It can be found across the North and South Islands of New Zealand and on Macquarie Island. Known for its edible fruit, Mirror Plant is both ornamental and useful as a food source. One distinctive feature sets it apart: its leaves have a mirror-like appearance due to their glossy surface, while another notable trait is its ability to grow in various light conditions from full sun to partial shade.
Quick answers
What is Mirror Plant?
Mirror Plant, scientifically known as Coprosma repens, is a low-growing shrub native to several islands in the Antipodes and New Zealand. This plant thrives in full sun to partial shade and prefers moist, light (sandy) to medium soil.
Growingconditions · propagation · uses
VCultivation
Cultivation
Mirror Plant thrives in full to partial sun and prefers moist, well-drained soil that is light (sandy) or medium. It grows best in temperate regions with hardiness zones 8-11. Propagate via cuttings for the best results. Harvest its edible fruit when ripe.
Light
Full sun, Partial sun/shade
Water
Moist
Soil
Light (sandy), Medium
Hardiness
8-11
Mature size
2.0 m tall
For first-time growers
How to grow Mirror Plant for the first time
8steps
Start with a simple Mirror Plant and focus on basic care.
- 1
What you'll need
A young Mirror Plant, potting mix, and a container.
- 2
Best time to plant
Plant in spring or early summer for best growth.
- 3
Soil and container prep
Use well-draining soil and ensure the container has drainage holes.
- 4
Sowing or transplanting
Transplant a young plant from a nursery pot into your chosen container.
- 5
First two weeks
Water regularly to keep the soil moist but not soggy. Place in partial shade.
- 6
Ongoing care
Provide full sun or partial shade, water when the top inch of soil feels dry, and use light fertilization once a year.
- 7
Harvest or pruning
Prune to maintain shape and remove any dead or damaged branches as needed.
- 8
Common mistakes
Overwatering, planting in heavy soil, and not providing enough sunlight are common issues.
VIEdible & utility
Edible & utility
Edible parts:Fruit
Edible uses: Coffee
Other uses:Dye
Contextrange · companions · related
VIIDistribution
4 native · 5 introduced
Distribution
4 native · 5 introducedDistribution across1 continent· 4 native· 5 introduced
Europe1 region
introduced (1)United Kingdom
Broader regions
native:Antipodean Is., Macquarie Is., New Zealand North, New Zealand South
introduced:New South Wales, South Australia, Tasmania, Victoria
IXSpecimen gallery
1 image
Specimen gallery
1 imageXI
Explore further
Companion planting
Growing zone
XII
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Back to the cataloguePlant id · 0500f01c-eb89-44b5-bb31-e868a6b0d88a
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