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Description
Coprosma Repens, commonly known as mirror plant or looking-glass bush, is a small evergreen shrub that belongs to the Rubiaceae family. Native to New Zealand and surrounding islands, it is a popular ornamental plant due to its attractive foliage and hardiness. Coprosma Repens is a slow-growing and low-maintenance plant that can be easily grown in containers or as a ground cover.
Taxonomic Information
| Domain | Eukaryota |
| Kingdom | Plantae |
| Phylum | Spermatophyta |
| Class | Magnoliopsida |
| Order | Gentianales |
| Family | Rubiaceae |
| Genus | Coprosma |
Appearance
Coprosma Repens has small, glossy, and oval-shaped leaves that are green or variegated with yellow, red, or orange. The plant grows up to 3-4 feet tall and wide, and produces insignificant greenish-white flowers in spring and summer. The fruit of Coprosma Repens is a small, bright red, or orange berry that attracts birds.
Care Guide
Coprosma Repens is a low-maintenance plant that requires minimal care. Here are some tips to help you care for your Coprosma Repens:
- Water: Water your Coprosma Repens regularly, especially during the growing season. Make sure the soil is moist but not waterlogged.
- Fertilization: Fertilize your Coprosma Repens with a balanced fertilizer in spring and summer.
- Soil: Plant your Coprosma Repens in well-draining soil that is rich in organic matter.
- Sunlight: Coprosma Repens prefers full sun to partial shade. Make sure it gets at least 6 hours of sunlight a day.
- Hardiness Zones: Coprosma Repens is hardy in USDA zones 8-11.
Common Pests & Diseases
Coprosma Repens is generally pest and disease-resistant. However, it can be affected by scale insects, mealybugs, spider mites, and root rot if the soil is too wet. To prevent these problems, make sure you provide your Coprosma Repens with proper care and avoid overwatering.
Habitat
Coprosma Repens is native to New Zealand and surrounding islands, where it grows in a variety of habitats, including forests, scrublands, and coastal areas. It is a hardy plant that can tolerate a wide range of soil types and weather conditions.
Question and Answer
Here are some frequently asked questions about Coprosma Repens:
- Q: Is Coprosma Repens a good indoor plant?
- A: Coprosma Repens can be grown indoors, but it prefers bright, direct sunlight and well-draining soil.
- Q: How often should I water Coprosma Repens?
- A: Water your Coprosma Repens regularly, but make sure the soil is moist but not waterlogged.
- Q: How tall does Coprosma Repens grow?
- A: Coprosma Repens can grow up to 3-4 feet tall and wide.
- Q: Is Coprosma Repens toxic to pets?
- A: Coprosma Repens is not toxic to pets.
Related Plants
- Coprosma Baueri
- Coprosma Crassifolia
- Coprosma Kirkii
- Coprosma Lucida
- Coprosma Robusta
References
- https://www.gardeningknowhow.com/ornamental/shrubs/coprosma/coprosma-shrubs.htm
- https://www.gardeningwithangus.com.au/coprosma-repens-mirror-plant/
- https://www.gardenia.net/plant-variety/coprosma-repens-mirror-plant
