māmāngi
Coprosma arborea | māmāngi, tree coprosma
This small, bushy tree, māmāngi typically grows up to 12m tall and 4m wide. Primarily found in the lush upper North Island, it often dominates the mid-canopy, particularly in areas of cut-over forest where taller old-growth trees were felled. It's also a major component of the sub-canopy in kauri forests. Māmāngi is characterised by distinct pairs of small, roundish, thin, mottled leaves with a tiny pit at the vein junction. These olive-colored leaves can develop yellow tones in winter, and each pair is accompanied by a unique long-tipped scale between the leaf stems. This tree is a popular choice for woodland gardens, mixed plantings, or as a backdrop for other shrubs.
typical habitat.
coastal forest
lower montane forest
lowland forest
drainage.
free draining
well drained
moist
sun.
partial shade
full sun
mature specifications.
height | 12m
width | 4m / 40cm (trunk)
pollinators calendar.
flowering | September - December
fruiting | January - December
did you know?
Māmāngi are one of Aotearoa's many Coprosma species, surprisingly close relatives of coffee. Their fruit is edible, and with enough time and patience, their seeds are even said to brew a passable cup of coffee!



