| Coprosma repens | |
|---|---|
| Scientific classification | |
| Kingdom: | Plantae |
| Division: | Magnoliophyta |
| Class: | Magnoliopsida |
| Order: | Gentianales |
| Family: | Rubiaceae |
| Genus: | Coprosma |
| Species: | C. repens |
| Binomial name | |
| Coprosma repens A. Rich. |
|
| Synonyms | |
|
Coprosma baueriana Hook. f. |
|
Coprosma repens is a shrub or small tree that is native to New Zealand.[1] Common names include Taupata, Mirror Bush, Looking-glass Bush, New Zealand Laurel and Shiny Leaf.[2][3][4]
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The habit of this species varies markedly with its situation. In exposed situations, such as cliffs, it assumes a prostrate habit, while in more sheltered areas it can grow as a small tree up to 8 metres in height.[5] It has thick and very glossy leaves which vary considerably in size, depending on exposure to the elements. The leaf margins are recurved, occasionally to the extent that the leaf may be cylindrical in cross-section.[5]
Flowers are produced in spring and summer, the male flowers appearing in dense, compound clusters, the female flowers in smaller clusters.[3] Female plants produce orange-red ovoid drupes which are around 8 mm in diameter and 10 mm in length.[5]
The species is native to the North Island, South Island, Kermadec Islands and Three Kings Islands in New Zealand.[5] In Australia it has become naturalised in coastal areas of Victoria, New South Wales, South Australia and Tasmania.[3]
The species has been popular in coastal gardens due to its resistance to salt spray.[2] Although it prefers well-drained sandy soils, it can cope with heavier soils.[4] There are a large number of cultivars: