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coprosma robusta tree

The Coprosma robusta tree, also known as Karamu, is a versatile and hardy New Zealand native shrub that thrives in a wide range of conditions. Beloved by gardeners and landscapers alike, this fast-growing evergreen features glossy, olive-green leaves and small orange-red fruit that attracts native birds like tui and kereru. Whether you’re restoring a native landscape, creating a shelterbelt, or looking for a resilient hedging plant, Coprosma robusta is a fantastic choice for gardens across Aotearoa.

Coprosma robusta (Karamu)

4.8 from 6 customers

Karamu, Karamū

Coprosma robusta, commonly known as Karamu, is a versatile New Zealand native shrub or small tree reaching up to 6 metres in height. It features glossy, dark green leaves and produces clusters of orange-red berries that attract native birds. Thriving in various conditions, including coastal areas and wetlands, Karamu is ideal for hedging, revegetation projects, and adding year-round interest to native gardens.

Coprosma robusta (Karamu) shrub growing as a specimen in a garden.
  • Suited to regions:
    All regions
  • Plant type:
    Shrubs
  • Height:
    6.00 m
  • Spread:
    3.00 m
  • Flowering time:
    Spring
  • Tolerances:
    Coastal, Hardy
  • Garden uses:
    Living areas, Ponds, Screening
  • Garden styles:
    Alpine, Backyard, City & Courtyard, Coastal, Formal, Frontyard, Japanese, Modern, Native, Riparian
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Coprosma robusta (Karamu)

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Why Grow Coprosma robusta Tree in Your Garden?

Coprosma robusta is one of New Zealand’s most adaptable natives. It tolerates wind, coastal exposure, and damp or dry soils, making it perfect for challenging sites. Growing up to 6 metres tall but happy to be trimmed into a manageable shrub, the Coprosma robusta tree provides excellent shelter from harsh conditions and encourages biodiversity with its nectar and fruit. It’s an ideal choice for both large-scale planting and smaller urban gardens seeking easy-care natives.

Planting and Care Tips for Coprosma robusta

This robust tree flourishes best in full sun to partial shade and will cope with a range of soil types, although it prefers well-drained ground. Plant Coprosma robusta in groups for shelterbelts, or use it as a wildlife-friendly backdrop to highlight feature shrubs and groundcovers. Water regularly during establishment, then let nature take over—its drought tolerance and pest resistance make it a low-maintenance addition to any landscape.

For best results, mulch around the base to conserve moisture and suppress weeds, especially during your plant’s early years. Prune lightly to encourage bushy growth or to maintain hedges.

Landscape Uses and Companion Plants

Coprosma robusta makes a stunning foil for contrasting textures and colours in your planting scheme. Pair it with other architectural natives like Cordyline terminalis or combine with groundcovers such as Coprosma Hawera (Sand Coprosma) for a layered effect. For a vibrant shrub border, add glossy-leaved varieties such as Coprosma Margarita (Mirror Bush) or Coprosma 'Mini Mac'.

Looking to extend the interest in your native garden? Try incorporating related species like Coprosma repens (Mirror Plant) for coastal plantings or the delicate Coprosma virescens (Mikimiki) for a finer-leaved alternative. Mix with colourful exotics like Azalea 'Louie Williams' or Hydrangea Fireworks for year-round blooms.

Benefits of the Coprosma robusta Tree

As well as offering shelter and food for birds and insects, the Coprosma robusta tree helps stabilise soil, making it valuable for revegetation and erosion control projects. Its rapid growth and resilience provide an instant effect in new gardens, while its subtle beauty and native heritage make it a foundation plant for any NZ landscape enthusiast. Complement it with flowering natives like Leptospermum Wiri Donna or bird-magnet species such as Banksia Bird Song.

Whether you’re designing a lush native shelterbelt, supporting wildlife, or establishing a hard-working hedge, the Coprosma robusta tree brings easy-care structure and enduring charm to gardens across New Zealand.


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Rosmarinus prostratus (Creeping Rosemary) and Griselinia 'Canterbury' are classic choices, but adventurous gardeners will enjoy Pear Conference, Limequat, and Grape 'Pinot Noir'.
–The Plant Company

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