5x Sand Coprosma - $5.99 each

Coprosma acerosa (Sand Coprosma)

Common Names: Sand coprosma, Creeping coprosma, Taupata (prostrate form)

Family: Rubiaceae

Origin: New Zealand (coastal dunes and shorelines)

Plant Type: Evergreen prostrate/divaricating shrub (groundcover)

Overview:

A hardy, coastal native that forms a low, weaving mat of twiggy stems and tiny leaves. Coprosma acerosa excels in windy, salty, and sandy sites, binding soil on banks and dunes while adding fine texture and seasonal colour from orange berries. Tough, low-care, and ideal for coastal and dry gardens.

Key Features:

Foliage: Tiny, leathery leaves (grey-green to olive); some forms bronze in cold/wind

Flowers/Fruit: Inconspicuous spring flowers; showy orange/yellow-orange berries that attract birds

Form & Habit: Prostrate, wide-spreading, interlaced stems (divaricating); naturally tidy with light clipping

Growth Rate: Moderate in free-draining soils; quicker in warm coastal sites

Cultural or Ecological Value: Excellent dune/bank stabiliser; coastal habitat value for birds/invertebrates

Mature Size:

Ideal Growing Conditions:

Landscaping and Garden Uses:

Coastal gardens and dune restoration

Banking/erosion control and groundcover between larger shrubs

Rockeries, gravel gardens, and xeric plantings

Front-of-border texture; spilling over walls and edges

Wildlife-friendly plantings (berries for birds)

Care and Maintenance:

Pruning: Light clip once or twice a year to maintain edges/shape; avoid hard, woody cuts

Watering: Regular to establish; thereafter minimal except in prolonged drought

Feeding: Generally unnecessary; optional light, native-safe slow-release feed in spring if growth slows

Pests and Diseases: Typically trouble-free in open, free-draining sites; root issues in poorly drained soils

Additional Tips: Space plants to allow spread (typically 60–90 cm apart for fill-in within 1–2 seasons)

Fun Fact / Botanical Insight:

The tight, interlaced branching (divarication) helps it withstand coastal wind and sand abrasion, making it a natural choice for dune stabilisation.

Why Choose Coprosma acerosa?

Ultra-tough coastal native groundcover that knits soil, shrugs off wind and salt, and brings fine texture plus bright berries—all with very low maintenance.

Pot Size:

Standard 7 cm square pots.