thin-leaved coprosma

Coprosma areolata | thin-leaved coprosma

 

A divaricating shrub or small tree with an upright habit, forming a dense network of fine branches. Its small, pale to mid-green leaves create a light, delicate texture, reflected in the common name thin-leaved coprosma. Naturally found in wet lowland forest, it is also tolerant of exposure and shade, making it a resilient structural plant.Small blue to black berries provide an important food source for birds. Well suited to woodland gardens and mixed native plantings, it works effectively as an understory shrub, shelter plant, or fine-textured background species in shady or damp conditions.

lowland forest

lower montane forest

dry

free draining

well drained

moist

wet

full sun

partial shade

height | 2m

width | 2m

flowering | October-December

fruiting |  (November-) December-April

The deep brown inner bark was traditionally used as a dye. Early records describe it as an excellent dye plant, staining fibres and even hands a persistent brown, an effect documented in 1918.