Coprosma Virescens
Coprosma virescens
Common Names: Mingimingi, Green Mingimingi
Family: Rubiaceae
Origin: New Zealand
Plant Type: Evergreen Shrub
Overview
Coprosma virescens, commonly known as Mingimingi, is a distinctive NZ native shrub recognised for its fine, twiggy branching and delicate, small leaves. The slender green branchlets create an airy, textured appearance that adds contrast and movement to native plantings. Extremely hardy and adaptable, this species thrives in a wide range of environments from coastal areas to inland hill country.
Key Features
Foliage: Tiny green leaves held along slender green branchlets, creating a soft, feathery texture
Flowers / Fruit: Small inconspicuous flowers followed by pale blue to white berries on female plants
Form & Habit: Upright, open shrub with fine twiggy structure
Growth Rate: Moderate
Cultural & Ecological Value: Berries provide food for native birds and contribute to natural habitat plantings
Mature Size
| Attribute | Size |
|---|---|
| Height | 2–3m |
| Spread | 1–1.5m |
| Form | Upright, twiggy shrub |
Ideal Growing Conditions
| Requirement | Detail |
|---|---|
| Light | Full sun to part shade |
| Water | Low to moderate; drought tolerant once established |
| Soil | Well-drained soils; tolerates poor and dry conditions |
| pH Range | Slightly acid to neutral |
| Frost Tolerance | Very hardy; tolerates frost, wind, and exposed conditions |
Landscaping & Garden Uses
• Native revegetation and restoration planting
• Shelter and background planting
• Naturalistic native gardens
• Habitat gardens supporting birdlife
Care & Maintenance
Pruning: Minimal pruning required; can be lightly trimmed if shaping is needed
Watering: Water regularly during establishment; drought tolerant once established
Feeding: Usually unnecessary in most garden soils
Pests & Diseases: Generally hardy and trouble-free
Additional Tips
Coprosma virescens thrives in open sunny positions and is well suited to low-maintenance and large-scale native planting schemes.
Fun Fact / Botanical Insight
The Māori name Mingimingi refers to the plant’s fine, wiry branches, which give it a delicate appearance despite its toughness in harsh conditions.
Why Choose Coprosma virescens?
For a hardy NZ native shrub that brings fine texture, ecological value, and excellent resilience to challenging sites, Coprosma virescens is an excellent choice.
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.
