tātaraheke

Coprosma acerosa | tātaraheke, sand coprosma

Tātaraheke is a hardy groundcover that thrives in tough coastal environments. This compact, spreading shrub has tangled, orange-brown branches clothed with small, needle-like leaves. It forms springy mounds with a spread of up to one meter, making it excellent for dune stabilisation and erosion control. The plant tolerates poor, sandy soils, as well as hot, dry, and windy conditions. Its small white fruits are a favorite food for skinks.