Corokia Cotoneaster

Corokia cotoneaster (Corokia cotoneaster)

Common Names: Wire Netting Bush, Korokio
Family: Argophyllaceae
Origin: Native to New Zealand
Plant Type: Evergreen shrub

Overview:

Corokia cotoneaster is a distinctive and hardy New Zealand native shrub known for its intricate, zigzag branching pattern and small, silvery-grey leaves. Often referred to as the “wire netting bush,” its unique structure offers year-round architectural interest, especially when clipped into formal shapes. In spring, it produces small yellow star-like flowers, followed by bright red berries that attract birds. Tough, drought-tolerant, and wind-resistant, it’s well suited to hedging, coastal gardens, and native landscapes.

Key Features:

• Foliage: Small, oval, grey-green leaves with a silvery underside; foliage often appears sparse but forms dense growth with age or clipping

• Flowers/Fruit: Tiny, yellow, star-shaped flowers in spring, followed by ornamental red berries in autumn

• Form & Habit: Naturally twiggy and irregular, but easily shaped into formal or cloud-pruned forms

• Growth Rate: Slow to moderate

• Cultural or Ecological Value: Important in native revegetation; berries provide food for birds; foliage used traditionally in Māori medicine

Mature Size:

Ideal Growing Conditions:

Landscaping and Garden Uses:

• Formal or informal hedging and topiary

• Native and ecological gardens

• Coastal and exposed sites

• Feature shrub in structured designs

• Wildlife gardens — berries attract birds

Care and Maintenance:

• Pruning: Prune lightly to shape or clip into hedges; responds well to topiary and cloud pruning

• Watering: Water during establishment; minimal watering once mature

• Feeding: Generally low nutrient requirements; fertilize in spring if growth is slow

• Pests and Diseases: Hardy and low-maintenance; rarely affected by pests

• Additional Tips: For a tight hedge or topiary, prune regularly from an early stage

Fun Fact or Botanical Insight:

The name Corokia cotoneaster reflects the plant’s resemblance to Cotoneaster, though they are unrelated. Its intricate branches and silver-toned foliage make it a favorite in Japanese-style gardens and modern architectural landscapes.

Why Choose Corokia cotoneaster?

For those seeking a plant with structure, character, and resilience, Corokia cotoneaster is a top performer. Whether used as a clipped hedge, informal screen, or specimen shrub, it adds texture, contrast, and native integrity to any planting scheme.

Pot Size:

These are our large size in 9cm square pots.