Coprosma Black Cloud
Coprosma ‘Black Cloud’
Common names: Black Cloud Coprosma
Family: Rubiaceae
Origin: New Zealand hybrid
Plant Type: Evergreen Shrub / Groundcover
Overview
Coprosma ‘Black Cloud’ is a compact, ground-hugging NZ native shrub prized for its dramatic deep purple-black foliage and dense, tidy form. Its colour intensifies through the cooler months, making it a standout year-round feature in modern gardens, rockeries, borders, and coastal landscapes.
Key Features
Foliage: Glossy small leaves turning rich purple-black, especially in winter; forms a dense, textural mat.
Flowers / Fruit: Tiny, inconspicuous flowers; primarily grown for its exceptional foliage colour.
Form & Habit: Low, spreading, cushion-like shrub—excellent for edging or mass planting.
Growth Rate: Moderate.
Cultural & Ecological Value: Provides shelter for insects and lizards; thrives in coastal and exposed environments.
Mature Size
| Attribute | Size |
|---|---|
| Height | 20–30 cm |
| Spread | 60–80 cm |
| Form | Low, spreading, compact shrub |
Ideal Growing Conditions
| Requirement | Detail |
|---|---|
| Light | Full sun to part shade (best colour in full sun) |
| Water | Low; drought-tolerant once established |
| Soil | Free-draining soils; tolerates sand, gravel, and poor soils |
| pH Range | Neutral to slightly acidic |
| Frost Tolerance | Hardy; foliage colour deepens in cold |
Landscaping & Garden Uses
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Striking colour accent or contrast plant
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Rockeries, gravel gardens, and low borders
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Coastal and exposed sites
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Mass planting for a dark, uniform carpet
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Excellent companion to flaxes, grasses, hebes, and silver foliage plants
Care & Maintenance
Pruning: Light trim annually to maintain shape if desired.
Watering: Minimal once established; water during the first growing season.
Feeding: Light spring fertiliser enhances colour and density.
Pests & Diseases: Typically pest-free and reliable.
Additional Tips
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Colour intensifies in winter and cooler climates.
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Avoid waterlogged soils to ensure dense, healthy growth.
-
Works well as a natural groundcover alternative to mulch.
Fun Fact / Botanical Insight
Coprosma species are known for their highly glossy, reflective leaves—‘Black Cloud’ takes this to another level with its rare near-black tones, offering exceptional contrast in landscape design.
Why Choose Coprosma ‘Black Cloud’?
A dramatic, easy-care native groundcover delivering year-round richness and texture—perfect for modern gardens and tough sites requiring low maintenance.
Pot Size: These are our standard size in 7cm square pots.
Pot Size:
Standard Pot = 7cm Square
Large Pot = 9cm Square
Extra Large Pot = 1.5L Round
Use this guide to see how many plants of your selected pot size fit into a half or full carton.
Standard Pot = 25 plants per Carton
Large Pot= 10 plants per Carton
Extra Large Pot = 5 plants per Carton
Urban- $16.55 per Carton Rural- $23.85 per Carton
Standard Pot = 50 plants per Carton
Large Pot= 25 plants per Carton
Extra Large Pot = 10 plants per Carton
Urban- $16.55 per Carton Rural- $23.85 per Carton
Product Size:
The photo next to the ruler shows an example of the plant for sale (cm's) to give an indication of the size. Please note that the photo is for reference only; the size and appearance of the plant may vary.
Please Note:
Shipping charge applies. Available for immediate dispatch only, while stocks last.
