Coprosma Lucida

Description

Coprosma Lucida is a small evergreen shrub native to New Zealand. This plant is known for its glossy, dark green leaves and small, inconspicuous flowers. It belongs to the Rubiaceae family and is commonly called shiny coprosma or glossy coprosma. Coprosma Lucida is widely cultivated as an ornamental plant because of its attractive appearance and ease of care.

Taxonomic Information

Appearance

Coprosma Lucida has glossy, dark green leaves that are oval in shape and grow up to 10 cm long. The leaves are arranged oppositely on the stem and have a leathery texture. The plant produces small, inconspicuous flowers in spring, which are followed by red berries in autumn. The berries are about 5 mm in diameter and can persist on the plant for several months. The plant typically grows up to 2 meters tall and 1.5 meters wide.

Care Guide

Coprosma Lucida is a hardy plant that is easy to care for. Here are some tips to help you take care of your coprosma:

• Water: Coprosma Lucida prefers well-drained soil and should be watered regularly during the growing season. Reduce watering in winter to avoid waterlogging the roots.
• Fertilization: Apply a balanced fertilizer in early spring to promote growth and flowering.
• Soil: Coprosma Lucida prefers a slightly acidic soil with a pH of 5.5 to 6.5. It can tolerate a range of soil types, including sandy, loamy, or clay soils.
• Sunlight: Coprosma Lucida prefers full sun to partial shade. It can tolerate some shade, but too much shade can reduce the plant’s vigor and flowering.
• Hardiness Zones: Coprosma Lucida is hardy in USDA zones 8 to 10.

Common Pests & Diseases

Coprosma Lucida is generally pest and disease-free. However, it can be susceptible to scale insects, mealybugs, and spider mites. These pests can be controlled with insecticidal soap or neem oil. The plant can also be affected by root rot if the soil is too wet. To prevent root rot, ensure that the soil is well-drained.

Habitat

Coprosma Lucida is endemic to New Zealand and can be found growing in coastal and lowland forests, shrublands, and rocky outcrops. The plant is adapted to a range of soil types and can tolerate coastal winds and salt spray.

Question and Answer

• Q: Is Coprosma Lucida poisonous to pets?
  A: Coprosma Lucida is not toxic to pets or humans.
• Q: Can Coprosma Lucida be grown in containers?
  A: Yes, Coprosma Lucida can be grown in containers as long as the container is large enough to accommodate the plant’s root system and the soil is well-drained.
• Q: How often should I prune my Coprosma Lucida?
  A: Coprosma Lucida can be pruned in late winter or early spring to maintain its shape and size. It can also be pruned lightly throughout the growing season to promote bushier growth.
• Q: Can Coprosma Lucida tolerate frost?
  A: Coprosma Lucida is not frost-tolerant and should be protected from frost in colder climates.

Related Plants

• Coprosma Kirkii
• Coprosma Robusta
• Coprosma Rugosa
• Coprosma Virescens

References

• “Coprosma Lucida.” New Zealand Plant Conservation Network. http://www.nzpcn.org.nz/flora_details.aspx?ID=47 (accessed July 6, 2021).
• “Coprosma Lucida.” Royal Horticultural Society. https://www.rhs.org.uk/plants/904/coprosma-lucida/details (accessed July 6, 2021).
• “Coprosma Lucida.” Plant Finder. https://www.monrovia.com/plant-catalog/plants/144/coprosma-lucida/ (accessed July 6, 2021).