Coprosma Kirkii
Coprosma kirkii
Common Names: Kirks Coprosma, Groundcover Coprosma
Family: Rubiaceae
Origin: New Zealand
Plant Type: Evergreen Shrub / Groundcover
Overview:
Coprosma kirkii is a hardy, ground-hugging native shrub prized for its dense, spreading habit and attractive grey-green foliage. Perfect for banks, retaining walls, or underplanting, it forms a low mat that helps suppress weeds and stabilise soil. Its subtle texture and resilience make it a valuable addition to native, coastal, or low-maintenance landscapes.
Key Features:
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Foliage: Small, oval, grey-green leaves with a leathery texture; provides a soft, natural look year-round.
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Flowers / Fruit: Tiny, inconspicuous greenish flowers followed by small bluish or white berries that may attract birds.
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Form & Habit: Low, spreading mat-forming shrub; hugs the ground closely.
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Growth Rate: Moderate
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Cultural & Ecological Value: Excellent groundcover for erosion control and habitat for insects and small reptiles.
Mature Size:
| Attribute | Size |
|---|---|
| Height | 10–30 cm (very low) |
| Spread | 1–2 m wide |
| Form | Prostrate, mat-forming groundcover |
Ideal Growing Conditions:
| Requirement | Detail |
|---|---|
| Light | Full sun to partial shade |
| Water | Low to moderate once established |
| Soil | Well-drained; tolerates sandy or rocky soils |
| pH Range | Neutral to slightly alkaline |
| Frost Tolerance | Hardy to approx. –5 °C |
Landscaping & Garden Uses:
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Groundcover for slopes, banks, or retaining walls
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Native garden underplanting
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Coastal and dry gardens
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Weed suppression in mass plantings
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Rock gardens and modern native designs
Care & Maintenance:
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Pruning: Occasional trim to tidy edges or keep within bounds
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Watering: Minimal once established; occasional watering in dry periods
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Feeding: Light application of balanced or native fertiliser in spring
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Pests & Diseases: Very low maintenance; generally pest- and disease-free
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Additional Tips: Avoid waterlogged soils; ideal for exposed, sunny areas
Fun Fact / Botanical Insight:
Named after botanist Thomas Kirk, this species is endemic to New Zealand and plays a valuable role in native ecosystems as groundcover in open shrublands and coastal areas.
Why Choose Coprosma kirkii?
Coprosma kirkii is one of the best native groundcovers available — compact, hardy, and ideal for controlling erosion or adding a soft, low-texture layer in tough planting zones. Its dense, spreading form is perfect for low-maintenance landscapes with a natural feel.
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.
