Mirror plant, Looking glass plant
Coprosma repens

Family: Rubiaceae

What it is like

A shrub. It has several stems. It grows up to 2.5 m high. The branches are stiff and spreading. They often form dense thickets. The leaves are almost rounded and leathery. They are shiny and deep green above and pale green underneath. The flowers are yellowish green. They occur in dense clusters. The fruit are orange-red. They are 6-8 mm long.

There are about 90 Coprosma species. It can be invasive.

Where it is found

It is a warm temperate to subtropical plant. They grow near shorelines and near boulders. It can withstand wind and salt spray. It will grow in most soils and conditions. It is resistant to drought, frost and fire. It suits hardiness zones 9-11. Tasmania Herbarium.

Countries/locations it is found in

Africa, Australia, East Africa, Hawaii, New Zealand (country/location of origin), North America, Pacific, Tasmania, USA, Zimbabwe

How it is used for food

Edible parts

Fruit

How it is grown

Plants can be grown by seed or cuttings.

It is fast growing.

Its other names

Local names

Taupata

Synonyms

Coprosma retusa; Coprosma baueri auct; See Coprosma pumila;