Coprosma propinqua aka Mingimingi

Taxonomy

Coprosma propinqua, also known as mingimingi, is a small-leaved shrub or tree that belongs to the genus Coprosma in the family Rubiaceae. It is a native plant of New Zealand and is commonly found in swampy forests, scrublands, along stream banks, and stony places. The plant grows up to 6 metres high and has divaricating branches. It has a wide distribution, ranging from Mangonui in the North Island to Stewart Island in the south. The male flowers occur in clusters of one to four on short branches, while the female flowers are found on their own at the ends of short branchlets. The fruit is a drupe that turns from pale to dark blue or blue-flecked when mature. Coprosma propinqua freely hybridizes with C. robusta (karamu). Mingimingi is a super rare houseplant that needs regular watering to thrive. It prefers long-lasting, direct light and should be less than 1 foot from a window. In its natural habitat, mingimingi is a common shrub of damp, infertile soils found in boggy areas or stream margins prone to flooding. It is intolerant of shade and grows best in older shrubs that receive good sunlight, but it should be noted that plants tend to fruit in alternate years. The fruit appears in autumn and is coloured variously white through to blue and almost black.

Common names

Mingimingi

How to care for Mingimingi

Difficulty

Mingimingi presents a moderate level of care, which allows plant enthusiasts with some experience to expand their skills and knowledge.

Water

Mingimingi should be watered regularly, allowing the soil to dry out between waterings.

Lighting

To ensure optimal growth, the Mingimingi prefers bright diffused light for 6-8 hours each day. Insufficient light can result in slow growth and leaf drop, so it's important to find a well-lit location for this plant. Place it near a window, within a distance of 1 meter (3 feet), to enhance its potential for thriving.

Dormancy

During the wintertime, it's common for Mingimingi to go dormant and their growth may slow down, so waterings should be spaced out more.

Toxicity

There is no verified data on the toxicity of this plant in the records of Ploi. If any person, including yourself, a family member, or a pet, consume plant material with an uncertain toxicity level, it is advisable to seek the advice of a healthcare expert.

Region of origin

Mingimingi’s native range is New Zealand.


More info:
Wikipedia