Coprosma rotundifolia
Coprosma rotundifoliafam. Rubiaceae
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Pl. 176A — Coprosma rotundifolia
Coprosma rotundifoliaCoprosma rotundifoliaCoprosma rotundifoliaCoprosma rotundifoliaCoprosma rotundifoliaCoprosma rotundifoliaCoprosma rotundifoliaCoprosma rotundifoliaCoprosma rotundifoliaCoprosma rotundifoliaCoprosma rotundifoliaCoprosma rotundifoliaCoprosma rotundifoliaCoprosma rotundifolia
IOverview
Overview
Coprosma rotundifolia, commonly known as New Zealand coprosma or rātāmākaro, is a shrub native to the North and South Islands of New Zealand. This plant thrives in full sun to partial shade, prefers moist conditions, and grows well in light (sandy) and medium soils. It can reach a height of 2.4 meters and is hardy in zones 8-11. The fruit of this shrub is edible, making it both ornamental and useful for those interested in foraging. Its distinctive features include its evergreen leaves and attractive red berries that add color to the landscape during winter months.
Quick answers
What is Coprosma rotundifolia?
Coprosma rotundifolia, commonly known as New Zealand coprosma or rātāmākaro, is a shrub native to the North and South Islands of New Zealand. This plant thrives in full sun to partial shade, prefers moist conditions, and grows well in light (sandy) and medium soils.
Growingconditions · propagation · uses
VCultivation
Cultivation
Coprosma rotundifolia thrives in full to partial sun and requires moist, well-draining soil that is light (sandy) or medium in texture. It is hardy in zones 8-11 and can grow up to 2.4 meters tall. The fruit of this plant is edible. For propagation, use cuttings or seeds. Ensure the soil remains consistently moist but not waterlogged for best results.
Light
Full sun, Partial sun/shade
Water
Moist
Soil
Light (sandy), Medium
Hardiness
8-11
Mature size
2.4 m tall
For first-time growers
How to grow Coprosma rotundifolia for the first time
8steps
Start with a simple, low-maintenance plant that thrives in New Zealand's climate.
- 1
What you'll need
Skip plants and a small trowel for planting.
- 2
Best time to plant
Plant Skip during spring or autumn when temperatures are mild.
- 3
Soil and container prep
Use well-draining soil with some sand mixed in. Ensure containers have drainage holes.
- 4
Sowing or transplanting
Transplant Skip from a nursery pot to your garden bed, ensuring the root ball is intact.
- 5
First two weeks
Water regularly to keep the soil moist but not waterlogged. Avoid direct sunlight for the first week.
- 6
Ongoing care
Provide partial sun or light shade and water when the top inch of soil feels dry.
- 7
Harvest or pruning
Prune Skip in late winter to maintain shape and remove any dead or damaged branches.
- 8
Common mistakes
Overwatering, planting in full sun, using heavy clay soil, neglecting regular pruning, and not providing enough drainage.
VIEdible & utility
Edible & utility
Edible parts:Fruit
Edible uses: Coffee
Other uses:Dye
Contextrange · companions · related
VIIDistribution
2 native · 0 introduced
Distribution
2 native · 0 introducedDistribution across0 continents· 2 native
Broader regions
native: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
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Companion planting
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Growing zone
XII
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Back to the cataloguePlant id · 176a1e56-853e-48d4-9b68-07fdf4a17bb4
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