| May 2005 Coprosma |
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Coprosma: A New Zealand genera
This genus of about 80 small shrubs and trees are widespread throughout the country. They show some of the most interesting and eye catching forms of NZ's ornamental shrubs. This small leaved twiggy form is termed divarication or filliforme. A number of theories have been proposed to explain this feature including an adaptation to browsing by moa, an adaptation to a previous ice age and a means of dispersing fruit and seeds by lizards. I support the last theory.
All species are dioecious, with male and female flowers found on separate plants.
Although flowering is usually in the spring months and fruit ripening in autumn, there is considerable diversity in the range for any species. Out of season flowering may occur. The fruits are a succulent globose drupe usually crowned with a small remnant of the flowers calyx. The berries of any species can vary greatly in size and colour according to its situation and moisture. Most species are quite simple to raise from seed if the seed is removed from the berry and soaked for 24 hours before sowing. It is suspected that some species may have a germination inhibitor within the berry. There are two seeds per berry.
There is often a 6-8 months time lag between sowing and germination for most species.
Another flush of germination may appear a year later.
Check out this slide show on this uniquely New Zealand genus
How do you tell if a small leaved plant is a Coprosma?
Coprosma exhibit the following features
- Stipules. A scale like appendage at the base of each leaf node.
- Opposite leaves or branches
- Domatia. Pits present on the undersurface of the leaves, at the junction of the midrib and the main veins.
- The fruit is a drupe or berry of various colours.
- There are 2 seeds per berry
- Dioecious. male and female flowers are found on separate plants
Whats new at Bushmans friend
Bushmansfriend guided walk: Wairakau stream track
In the quiet folds of Whangaroa. If you want an experience that combines tranquillity and history with dramatic scenery, that immerses you in the rich flora of Northland's native bush, take the guided walk from Totara North to the Duke's Nose in the outer reaches of the Whangaroa Harbour.
Whats that Plant?
Cultivation and botanical information on 24 common trees or shrubs.
Order Native Plant seeds on line
Teachers and educators make use of these slideshows that highlight the features of NZ native plants. Ideal for student projects and the living world topic.Click here
Links to New Zealand native plant websites Click here
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Check out these links for superior accomodation. www.totaranorth.co.nz , Mill Bay Motel. , The Cats Pyjamas
Or enjoy a relaxing houseboat holiday on the magestic Whangaroa harbour.
Best wishes and feel free to forward this email to friends who may appreciate the special features of the New Zealand flora.
Contact Details e-mail
Tony Foster
73 Campbell Rd Totara North Rd 2 Kaeo Northland New Zealand
phone 64 09 4051844 0800 266685 0276805588
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