Corokia Macrocarpa

Description

Corokia Macrocarpa, commonly known as New Zealand Wire-netting Bush, is a slow-growing evergreen shrub native to New Zealand. It can grow up to 5 meters tall and 2 meters wide, forming a dense bushy habit. The leaves are small, thick, and glossy, usually green or yellow-green in color. The branches are thin and wiry, forming a tangled network that gives the plant its common name. In late spring, it produces small yellow flowers that are followed by large orange-red berries, which are edible and often used to make jams and jellies.

Taxonomic Information

Appearance

Corokia Macrocarpa has a unique appearance, with thin and wiry branches forming a tangled network that gives the plant its common name. The leaves are small, thick, and glossy, usually green or yellow-green in color. The plant can grow up to 5 meters tall and 2 meters wide, forming a dense bushy habit. In late spring, it produces small yellow flowers that are followed by large orange-red berries, which are edible and often used to make jams and jellies.

Care Guide

Corokia Macrocarpa is a low-maintenance plant, but it still requires some care to thrive. Here are some tips:

• Water: Water the plant regularly, especially during hot and dry weather. Make sure the soil is moist but not waterlogged.
• Fertilization: Apply a balanced fertilizer in early spring and mid-summer to promote healthy growth.
• Soil: Corokia Macrocarpa prefers well-draining soil that is slightly acidic. If your soil is heavy and clayey, add some sand or perlite to improve drainage.
• Sunlight: The plant prefers full sun to partial shade. Make sure it gets at least 4-6 hours of direct sunlight per day.
• Hardiness Zones: Corokia Macrocarpa is hardy in USDA zones 8-11. It can tolerate temperatures as low as 10°F (-12°C).

Common Pests & Diseases

Corokia Macrocarpa is relatively pest and disease-resistant, but it can still be affected by some common problems:

• Scale insects: These small insects suck the sap from the leaves and branches, causing yellowing and wilting. Use a horticultural oil spray to control them.
• Powdery mildew: This fungal disease causes a white powdery coating on the leaves, reducing their photosynthetic efficiency. Use a fungicide spray to control it.
• Root rot: This disease is caused by waterlogged soil, which leads to the death of the roots. Improve drainage and avoid overwatering to prevent it.

Habitat

Corokia Macrocarpa is native to New Zealand, where it grows in a variety of habitats, including forests, shrublands, and coastal areas. It prefers well-draining soil and can tolerate drought and salt spray. In cultivation, it can be grown in a variety of settings, including as a hedge, border, or specimen plant.

Question and Answer

Q: Is Corokia Macrocarpa a good plant for hedges?

A: Yes, Corokia Macrocarpa is a good plant for hedges due to its dense bushy habit and low-maintenance requirements.

Q: Can Corokia Macrocarpa be grown in containers?

A: Yes, Corokia Macrocarpa can be grown in containers, but it requires regular watering and fertilization to thrive.

Q: Is Corokia Macrocarpa deer-resistant?

A: Yes, Corokia Macrocarpa is deer-resistant due to its thorny branches and tough leaves.

Q: Can Corokia Macrocarpa be propagated from cuttings?

A: Yes, Corokia Macrocarpa can be propagated from cuttings taken in early spring or late summer. Dip the cuttings in rooting hormone and plant them in a well-draining soil mix.

Related Plants

• Corokia cotoneaster
• Corokia buddleioides
• Corokia virgata
• Corokia x virgata ‘Sunsplash’

References

• “Corokia macrocarpa.” PlantNet. Accessed 8 June 2021. https://plantnet.rbgsyd.nsw.gov.au/cgi-bin/NSWfl.pl?page=nswfl&lvl=sp&name=Corokia~macrocarpa
• “Corokia macrocarpa.” Missouri Botanical Garden. Accessed 8 June 2021. https://www.missouribotanicalgarden.org/PlantFinder/PlantFinderDetails.aspx?taxonid=280130&isprofile=0&basic=corokia%20macrocarpa
• “Corokia macrocarpa.” Royal Horticultural Society. Accessed 8 June 2021. https://www.rhs.org.uk/Plants/422734/Corokia-macrocarpa/Details