Coprosma

Family. Rubiaceae.

Origin. New Zealand.

Description. Coprosma is a fairly numerous genus of plants, including about 90 species of evergreen shrubs and small trees. Stems are creeping or erect. It features very attractive foliage in a variety of shades - from solid green to green with white, yellow, pink, red, orange and lilac. The leaves are glossy, leathery, hard, simple, oval, opposite, 3 - 5 cm long. The plant is dioecious - male and female flowers appear on different specimens. The flowers are funnel-shaped, white or greenish, inconspicuous and of no particular value. After flowering, juicy berries appear, which when ripe become bright orange, red or blue.

Height. In the natural environment it reaches 6 m; in culture it is regulated by pruning.

Temperature conditions

Prefers moderately warm keeping at a temperature of 18 - 20 ° C; a cool wintering at a temperature of about 10 ° C is required.

Lighting

Bright but reflected sunlight. Grows well in partial shade. 

Care

Trees tolerate even radical pruning very well. Regularly pinch young shoots so that coprosma branches abundantly and is thick. Will appreciate being outside in spring and summer. Adult specimens are very unpretentious and do not require special care.

Substrate

Tolerates a wide range of soils, even those quite poor in nutrients, as long as there is good drainage. The pH prefers neutral or slightly acidic.

Feeding

During the growth period, feed with complex fertilizers 2 times a month, starting from the appearance of new growth. During the winter period of rest, fertilizing is not carried out. Loves organic fertilizers.

Purpose

Coprosma grows quite quickly and fills pots. Looks great in hanging baskets with its long stems hanging over the edge of the pot. An ornamental foliage plant that looks good at any time of the year. Bushes with creeping stems can be used as ground cover.

Flowering time

It rarely blooms in cultivation, the flowers are unremarkable.

Air humidity

Does not require regular spraying and tolerates fairly dry air. Spray to prevent pests.

Soil moisture

Young seedlings require regular watering to establish a strong root system. Mature specimens are drought tolerant. Water regularly during the growing season, but allow the top layer of soil to dry out between waterings. Reduce watering during the dormant period, allowing the soil to dry out almost completely.

Transfer

Coprosma quickly and fills all available space in the pot. Replant annually in spring into larger pots. In mature large trees, the top layer of soil should be changed annually.

Reproduction

Propagated by semi-ripe stem cuttings about 10 cm long, in summer. Cuttings take root quite easily. Seeds for propagation are used fresh and sown in spring. The germination period can last a year.

Pests and diseases

Coprosma quickly begins to rot and can die if there is excess moisture.

Harmful insects sometimes include aphids and scale insects.

Note

Lives for a long time in indoor culture with proper care.