Coriaria ruscifolia

Coriaria ruscifolia is a deciduous shrub in the Coriariaceae family. Its common names include New Zealand wineberry and tutu poison plant. Kew records a broad native range across two regions. One extends from New Guinea into the South Pacific. The other runs from Mexico to southwestern Argentina. It grows in temperate regions and is not native to Britain or Ireland. Plants for a Future reports a height of about 3.3 feet [1 metre].

The shrub flowers from July to August. Its flowers have both male and female organs. The supplied species account gives few details about leaf or bark appearance. It does record uses for both these parts. The leaves yield black ink and can supply dye. The bark contains much tannin and also has dye uses. Plants for a Future lists the shrub as a nitrogen fixer. This may add to its value in mixed plantings.

Choose a sheltered spot with sun and good loamy soil. Plants for a Future also reports success in light shade. Its account lists sandy and clay soils as suitable too. The soil should drain well but stay moist. The plant accepts mildly acid, neutral and mildly alkaline conditions. Suggested garden sites include sunny woodland edges and areas with dappled shade. These sites still need shelter and enough light for growth.

Cold limits its use in British gardens. Plants for a Future reports survival down to about 23°F [−5°C]. It notes outdoor success from Sussex westwards. The same source lists USDA zones 7–10. These cold-tolerance figures do not align closely, so local conditions matter. Grow seedlings under glass through at least their first winter. Plant them out after the last expected frost. Seed sowing under glass is suggested for February or March. Half-ripe cuttings offer another way to raise plants in July or August.

Poison risk is a key concern with this shrub. Most parts are highly poisonous, including the seeds. The fleshy part called fruit is formed from petals. Reports describe eating it raw or pressing it for drinks. Yet some reports advise against using it at all. These records should not be taken as proof of safety. Plants for a Future lists no known medicinal uses. Its account also records no weed potential.