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Description
Coprosma Ochracea, commonly known as the Yellow Coprosma or Mountain Coprosma, is a species of small shrub in the coffee family Rubiaceae. It is native to New Zealand and can be found on the North and South Islands. It is a slow-growing evergreen shrub, reaching a height of 2-3 meters and a width of 1-2 meters. The plant is dioecious, meaning that there are separate male and female plants. The leaves are small and glossy, with a bright yellow-green color that is particularly striking in the winter months. The plant produces small, inconspicuous flowers in the summer, followed by small red or black berries that are attractive to birds.
Taxonomic Information
| Domain | Eukarya |
| Kingdom | Plantae |
| Phylum | Tracheophyta |
| Class | Magnoliopsida |
| Order | Gentianales |
| Family | Rubiaceae |
| Genus | Coprosma |
| Species | Coprosma Ochracea |
Appearance
The Yellow Coprosma is a striking shrub with small, glossy leaves that are bright yellow-green in color. The leaves are oval-shaped and measure about 2-3 centimeters long. The plant is slow-growing and can reach a height of 2-3 meters, with a width of 1-2 meters. The bark is brown and smooth, and the plant produces small, inconspicuous flowers in the summer. The flowers are followed by small red or black berries that are attractive to birds.
Care Guide
The Yellow Coprosma is a relatively low-maintenance plant that requires moderate care. Here are some tips for caring for your Yellow Coprosma:
- Water: The plant requires moderate watering, with the soil being kept moist but not waterlogged.
- Fertilization: The plant benefits from occasional fertilization, particularly during its growing season in the spring and summer.
- Soil: The plant prefers well-draining, slightly acidic soil. It can also tolerate sandy or clay soils.
- Sunlight: The Yellow Coprosma prefers full sun to partial shade. It can tolerate some shade, but it may become leggy and lose its shape without enough sunlight.
- Hardiness Zones: The plant is hardy in USDA zones 9-11.
Common Pests & Diseases
The Yellow Coprosma is generally resistant to pests and diseases. However, it may be susceptible to root rot if the soil is too damp. Common pests that may affect the plant include spider mites, scale insects, and mealybugs. These pests can be controlled with insecticidal soap or neem oil.
Habitat
The Yellow Coprosma is native to New Zealand and can be found on the North and South Islands. It grows in a variety of habitats, including forests, shrublands, and rocky slopes. The plant is well-suited to coastal areas and can tolerate salt spray and wind.
Question and Answer
Q: Can the Yellow Coprosma be grown indoors?
A: While the Yellow Coprosma can be grown indoors, it prefers full sun and may become leggy without enough sunlight.
Q: How often should I fertilize my Yellow Coprosma?
A: The plant benefits from occasional fertilization, particularly during its growing season in the spring and summer.
Q: Is the Yellow Coprosma deer-resistant?
A: The plant is not particularly deer-resistant and may be eaten by deer if they are present in the area.
Q: How often should I water my Yellow Coprosma?
A: The plant requires moderate watering, with the soil being kept moist but not waterlogged.
Related Plants
- Coprosma Kirkii
- Coprosma Propinqua
- Coprosma Robusta
- Coprosma Rhamnoides
References
- “Coprosma Ochracea.” New Zealand Plant Conservation Network. Accessed 15 Oct. 2021. https://www.nzpcn.org.nz/flora/species/coprosma-ochracea/
- “Coprosma Ochracea.” University of Waikato. Accessed 15 Oct. 2021. https://www.waikato.ac.nz/sas/about-us/facilities-and-gardens/gardens/coprosma-ochracea
- “Yellow Coprosma.” Royal Horticultural Society. Accessed 15 Oct. 2021. https://www.rhs.org.uk/plants/15618/coprosma-ochracea/details
