Coprosma repens aka Taupata

Coprosma repens is highly adaptable in size depending on growing conditions. In sheltered locations, it can reach tree-like proportions of up to 8 metres tall. In cultivation or exposed coastal areas, it typically grows 1.5 to 3 metres in both height and spread, taking 10-20 years to reach mature size. The growth rate is moderate. In very exposed cliff or coastal situations, the plant may adopt a prostrate, creeping habit rather than upright growth.

Coprosma repens thrives in moist but well-drained soil. It prefers light (sandy) to medium (loamy) soil types with mildly acidic to neutral pH. The plant tolerates clay soil as well but requires good drainage to prevent root rot. When growing in containers, use a peat-free, loam-based potting compost with added grit to ensure adequate drainage.

Coprosma repens is half-hardy and frost-sensitive, suitable for USDA zones 8-11 and UK hardiness zone 9. It can tolerate temperatures down to approximately -5°C to 1°C (RHS hardiness rating H3) but requires protection from hard frosts. The minimum recommended temperature is 2°C. The plant performs best in mild, coastal climates and should be brought indoors or given frost protection in colder regions.

Coprosma repens is naturally adapted to coastal environments where humidity levels are moderate to high. When grown indoors, provide good ventilation as recommended by RHS for greenhouse cultivation. The plant's thick, glossy leaves help it tolerate varying humidity levels, though it appreciates consistent moisture in the air. Avoid placing it near heating vents or in excessively dry indoor environments.

During the growing season (spring and summer), apply a balanced liquid fertilizer monthly. When grown in containers under glass, RHS recommends monthly feeding when the plant is actively growing. Reduce or stop fertilizing in winter when growth slows. The plant is not particularly heavy-feeding but benefits from regular nutrition during its active growth period.

Coprosma repens can be propagated by seed, semi-hardwood cuttings, or layering. Sow seeds in containers in a cold frame during spring, but note that germination is slow and may exceed 12 months. Seedlings require frost protection. Semi-hardwood cuttings taken in late summer root reliably. NZPCN notes that the plant is easily grown from any of these methods and may self-sow in favorable conditions.

Yes, Coprosma repens is a dioecious flowering species, meaning plants are either male or female. Flowers are small and inconspicuous, appearing in green and white coloration. Male flowers form dense compound clusters while female flowers appear in smaller clusters. Blooming occurs from spring through summer (May-June in Northern Hemisphere). Female plants produce attractive orange-red berries after pollination, but both male and female plants are needed for fruit production.

Coprosma repens is wind-pollinated and dioecious, requiring both male and female plants for successful pollination and fruit production. The plant is not self-fertile, so if you want to produce the ornamental orange-red berries, you need to grow at least one plant of each sex. The wind carries pollen from male flower clusters to female flowers, resulting in fruit development on female plants.

Numerous colorful cultivars have been developed, prized for their variegated foliage that intensifies in cooler weather. Popular varieties include 'Pacific Dawn' (pink, cream, and green), 'Marble Queen' (white and green marbled), 'Rainbow Surprise' (multicolored with pink, orange, green), 'Tequila Sunrise', 'Evening Glow', 'Pacific Sunset', 'Cappuccino', 'Picturata' (creamy-yellow central blotches), 'Pink Splendor', and 'Coppershine'. Many cultivars are bred for compact size suitable for containers and hedging.

Coprosma repens can grow outdoors year-round in USDA zones 8-11 or UK zone 9 (mild coastal and temperate regions). Plant in neutral to slightly acidic, moist but well-drained soil in a sheltered position with full sun or light shade. Protect from winter frosts and cold winds. In colder climates, grow in containers that can be moved indoors during winter or treat as a conservatory plant. The species is exceptionally salt and wind tolerant, making it ideal for coastal gardens.

Coprosma repens tolerates heavy pruning very well and falls under RHS Pruning Group 8 (evergreen shrubs). Prune in late spring to shape the plant, remove dead or damaged growth, or maintain desired size. The plant responds well to regular trimming and can be shaped into hedges or kept compact in containers. Avoid pruning in winter when frost may damage fresh cuts. The species' tolerance for pruning makes it excellent for formal hedging in suitable climates.

Repot container-grown Coprosma repens in spring when roots become crowded, typically every 2-3 years. Choose a container only slightly larger than the current one, as the plant doesn't require excessive root space. Use peat-free, loam-based potting compost with added grit for drainage. When repotting, check roots for health and trim any damaged portions. The plant's moderate growth rate means it won't quickly outgrow its container.

Coprosma repens is generally pest and disease-free according to RHS. The plant's thick, glossy leaves provide natural resistance to many common problems. However, like most plants, it may occasionally experience aphids, scale insects, or mealybugs, particularly when grown under glass. Root rot can occur if soil drainage is poor. The main concern is not pests but rather the plant's tendency to self-sow and become invasive in suitable climates.

In spring and summer (active growth period), water freely and apply balanced liquid fertilizer monthly. This is also the time for pruning and propagation. In autumn, reduce watering and prepare plants for winter. In winter, keep soil just moist and stop fertilizing. Protect from frost—move container plants indoors or cover outdoor plants in borderline climates. Foliage colors in variegated cultivars often intensify during cooler autumn and winter months, making this their most ornamental season.

The genus name Coprosma derives from Greek 'kopros' (dung) and 'osme' (smell), literally meaning 'dung smell', referring to the odor produced by some species in the genus when leaves or stems are crushed. However, Coprosma repens is not particularly noted for a strong or unpleasant smell under normal conditions. The flowers are small and inconspicuous with no significant fragrance. The glossy leaves do not typically emit noticeable scent unless damaged.

Coprosma repens has limited edibility with a rating of 1 out of 5. The orange-red fruits (about 10mm diameter) are edible and sweet but lack significant flavor. They can be eaten fresh when fully ripe. The seeds can be roasted and used as a coffee substitute. Only female plants produce fruit, and both male and female plants are needed for fruit production due to the dioecious nature of the species. The fruits are not toxic but are not particularly valued as a food source.

Beyond ornamental value, Coprosma repens has limited additional uses rated 1 out of 5 by PFAF. The wood can be used to produce a yellow dye that does not require a mordant for colorfastness. The plant is excellent for coastal hedging due to its salt and wind tolerance. It provides food for birds when fruiting and serves as a windbreak in exposed coastal gardens. Historically, various Coprosma species had uses in traditional Māori medicine, though C. repens specifically is not documented for medicinal purposes.

Even if you don't have a green thumb, you can successfully care for Taupata due to its easy-going nature.

Taupata’s native range is New Zealand.

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

To ensure optimal growth, the Taupata 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.

The toxicity level of this plant has not been officially confirmed by Ploi. If there is a possibility of ingestion of plant material with an uncertain toxicity by you, a family member, or a pet, it is advisable to seek the assistance of a medical professional.