Skip to content
IIIFolio · plant profile№ 389Cedible
Data provenancePermapeopleTrefleWikipediaPFAFPOWOreviewed 18 Oct 2026methodology → read

Coprosma virescens

Coprosma virescens
Educational content — not medical, botanical, or professional advice. Plant identification, safety, and edibility depend on local conditions, cultivars, and correct identification. Consult a qualified botanist or forager before consuming or handling wild specimens. How we source & review →
edibleshrubsedible
Updated·Quick Q&A →
Garden journal pausedUse profile notes below
Coprosma virescens (Coprosma virescens) — botanical photograph
Pl. 389C — Coprosma virescens
Coprosma virescensCoprosma virescensCoprosma virescensCoprosma virescensCoprosma virescensCoprosma virescensCoprosma virescensCoprosma virescensCoprosma virescensCoprosma virescensCoprosma virescensCoprosma virescensCoprosma virescensCoprosma virescens
I

Overview

Coprosma virescens, commonly known as the New Zealand native plant, is an evergreen shrub that thrives in the forests and coastal areas of both the North and South Islands of New Zealand. This plant is well-suited to full sun or partial shade and prefers moist, light (sandy) to medium soil conditions. Hardy from zones 7-10, it can grow up to 2 meters tall. While primarily known for its ornamental value, the plant also offers edible fruit that can be enjoyed, making it a versatile addition to gardens and landscapes. Its distinctive feature lies in its adaptability to various environmental conditions and its role as a native species in New Zealand's ecosystem. For optimal growth, ensure the soil remains consistently moist but well-draining. Propagation can be done through cuttings. The fruit of Coprosma virescens can be used to make a coffee-like beverage, adding a unique flavor to your morning routine.

Quick answers

What is Coprosma virescens?

Coprosma virescens, commonly known as the New Zealand native plant, is an evergreen shrub that thrives in the forests and coastal areas of both the North and South Islands of New Zealand. This plant is well-suited to full sun or partial shade and prefers moist, light (sandy) to medium soil conditions.

Growingconditions · propagation · uses
V

Cultivation

Coprosma virescens thrives in full to partial sun and prefers moist soil that is light (sandy) or medium. It grows best in hardiness zones 7-10, making it suitable for temperate regions. The plant reaches a height of about 2 meters and produces edible fruit. For optimal growth, ensure the soil remains consistently moist but well-draining. Propagation can be done through cuttings.
Light
Full sun, Partial sun/shade
Water
Moist
Soil
Light (sandy), Medium
Hardiness
7-10
Mature size
2.0 m tall
For first-time growers

How to grow Coprosma virescens for the first time

8steps

Start with planting Coprosma virescens in a sunny spot and follow these beginner-friendly steps.

  1. 1

    What you'll need

    Coprosma virescens plants, well-draining soil, water can, mulch.

  2. 2

    Best time to plant

    Plant in spring or autumn when the weather is mild.

  3. 3

    Soil and container prep

    Use light, sandy or medium soil. Ensure good drainage for containers.

  4. 4

    Sowing or transplanting

    Transplant young plants from a nursery or divide mature plants in spring.

  5. 5

    First two weeks

    Water regularly to keep the soil moist but not waterlogged. Mulch around the base.

  6. 6

    Ongoing care

    Provide full sun to partial shade, and water when the top inch of soil feels dry.

  7. 7

    Harvest or pruning

    Prune in late winter to maintain shape and remove any dead or damaged branches.

  8. 8

    Common mistakes

    Overwatering, planting in heavy soil, neglecting to prune regularly.

VI

Edible & utility

Edible parts:Fruit
Edible uses: Coffee
Other uses:Dye
Contextrange · companions · related
VII

Distribution

2 native · 0 introduced
Distribution across0 continents· 2 native
Broader regions
native:New Zealand North, New Zealand South
IX

Specimen gallery

1 image
Coprosma virescens (Coprosma virescens) — botanical photograph
Coprosma virescens (Coprosma virescens)
XI

Explore further

XII

About this entry

Last updated
Citation
How to cite this entry · Submit a correction
Back to the cataloguePlant id · 389c56c8-e68a-499e-ad2b-0d95d3b55db8
❦❦❦❦
Endpaper · archive updates

Get archive updates

Occasional email when substantial new content lands — plant profiles, seasonal growing notes, folk-remedy additions. Free, no tracking, unsubscribe anytime.

Newsletter returning soon.
We are rebuilding the update list around a lightweight editorial workflow. New dispatches will resume after the next content review cycle.
iCare notes