Mingimingi
Coprosma propinqua
Coprosma propinqua, commonly known as Mingimingi, is an evergreen shrub among New Zealand's native shrubs or small tree native to New Zealand. It is a highly variable plant that can grow up to 6 meters tall, sometimes reaching 7 meters. It is characterized by its divaricating (wide-angled, interlaced) branches and small, dark green, glossy leaves. The leaves are typically 1 to 3 centimeters long, elliptical or lanceolate in shape, and may have two small pits (domatia) on their pale underside. The plant produces small, inconspicuous greenish or yellowish flowers in clusters, with male and female flowers on separate plants (dioecious). These are followed by fleshy drupes (berries) that are typically spherical or ovoid, about 5 to 7 millimeters in diameter. The fruit starts green and matures to a translucent dark blue, blue-flecked, or indigo color, or sometimes orange to red, attracting birds. Coprosma propinqua is a hardy and adaptable species, found in diverse settings across New Zealand, from coastal salt marshes to dry woodlands. It can tolerate a wide range of growing conditions, including poor soils, frost, and exposure to salt spray.
Plant Description
Botanical Features
Coprosma propinqua, commonly known as Mingimingi or black scrub, is an evergreen shrub or small tree native to New Zealand. It is a highly variable plant that can grow up to 6 meters tall, characterized by its divaricating (wide-angled, interlaced) branches and small, dark green, glossy leaves, typically 1 to 3 centimeters long. The leaves may have two small pits (domatia) on their pale underside. The plant produces small, inconspicuous greenish or yellowish flowers, followed by fleshy drupes (berries) that are typically spherical or ovoid, about 5 to 7 millimeters in diameter. The fruit starts green and matures to a translucent dark blue, blue-flecked, or indigo color, or sometimes orange to red, attracting birds. It is a hardy and adaptable species, found in diverse settings across New Zealand, from coastal salt marshes to dry woodlands, tolerating poor soils, frost, and salt spray.
Quick Facts
| Scientific Name | Coprosma propinqua |
|---|---|
| Height | 1-3 m |
| Spread | 2-4 m |
| Water Needs | Low to moderate |
| Light | Full sun to part shade |
| Frost Tolerance | Good |
| Salt Tolerance | Poor |
| Growth Rate | Moderate |
| Lifespan | Long |
Climate Best Suited to
Mingimingi (Coprosma propinqua) is highly adaptable, growing in various conditions from coastal to alpine areas across New Zealand. It adapts well to typical New Zealand growing conditions with appropriate care and positioning.
Regional Suitability
| City | Climate Suitability |
|---|---|
| Whangārei | Ideal |
| Auckland | Ideal |
| Hamilton | Ideal |
| Tauranga | Ideal |
| Rotorua | Ideal |
| Gisborne | Ideal |
| New Plymouth | Ideal |
| Napier | Ideal |
| Whanganui | Ideal |
| Palmerston North | Ideal |
| Wellington | Ideal |
| Nelson | Ideal |
| Christchurch | Ideal |
| Dunedin | Ideal |
| Invercargill | Ideal |
Natural Habitat
Mingimingi (Coprosma propinqua) is a testament to the resilience and adaptability of New Zealand's native flora. It is found in an impressively wide range of habitats across the country, from the coast to subalpine regions. This hardy shrub is a common sight in wetlands, where it can tolerate boggy, waterlogged soils, and along the banks of streams and rivers. At the same time, it is equally at home in dry, exposed environments such as rocky outcrops, gravelly riverbeds, and coastal cliffs where it withstands salt spray and wind. Its presence in both lowland forests and scrublands, as well as its ability to colonize disturbed areas, makes it a true generalist. This remarkable versatility allows it to thrive in almost any part of New Zealand, making it a vital component of many different ecosystems and a valuable plant for a wide range of restoration projects.
Plant Conservation
Coprosma propinqua, also known by its Māori name mingimingi, is classified as "Not threatened" in New Zealand. It is an endemic species found throughout New Zealand in diverse settings, including coastal salt marshes and dry woodlands.
Growing Requirements
Soil Requirements
Mingimingi (Coprosma propinqua) performs best in well-draining soil that retains adequate moisture. Like most New Zealand natives, it prefers soils that don't become waterlogged but maintain consistent moisture levels. Good drainage is essential for healthy root development.
- Well-draining soil essential for healthy growth
- Prefers consistent moisture without waterlogging
- Adapts to various soil types with good drainage
- Benefits from organic matter incorporation
- Mulching helps retain moisture and suppress weeds
Light Requirements
Mingimingi (Coprosma propinqua) performs well in full sun to partial shade conditions. Like many New Zealand natives, it adapts to various light conditions but typically shows best growth and form in positions that receive adequate sunlight throughout the day.
- Full sun to partial shade positions
- At least 4-6 hours of direct sunlight daily
- Tolerates light shade in warmer climates
- Morning sun particularly beneficial
Water Requirements
Mingimingi (Coprosma propinqua) requires regular watering during establishment, typically for the first 1-2 years. Once established, it becomes more drought-tolerant but benefits from consistent moisture during dry periods. Avoid overwatering which can lead to root problems.
- Regular watering during establishment phase
- Moderate drought tolerance once established
- Consistent moisture during dry periods beneficial
- Avoid waterlogged conditions
- Mulching helps conserve soil moisture
Planting Guide
When to Plant
The best time to plant Coprosma propinqua is from early spring through autumn, as warmer soil and ample moisture create optimal conditions for root establishment.
Site Selection
- Sunlight: Coprosma propinqua thrives in full sun but can tolerate partial shade. Full sun exposure can lead to denser growth and darker leaf coloring.
- Soil: It prefers well-drained soil and is adaptable to various soil types, including poor soils. While it tolerates periods of dryness once established, some varieties, like "swamp coprosma," prefer moist environments. It can grow in neutral to slightly acidic soil. It is also known to tolerate coastal conditions and salt spray.
- Exposure: It is wind-tolerant, but shelter can improve leaf quality.
- Space: Ensure enough space for its mature size, which can be up to 6 meters tall and 4 meters wide.
Planting Steps
- Dig a hole twice the depth and width of the plant's root ball.
- Mix compost (e.g., Kings Compost) and sheep pellets into your existing soil at a 50/50 ratio.
- Backfill the hole so that the top of the plant's roots are level with the surrounding ground.
- In heavy clay soils with drainage issues, plant onto a raised mound and add gypsum clay breaker to the bottom of the hole to help condition the soil.
- Water in well with an organic garden booster.
After Planting Care
Water deeply after planting to settle the soil around the roots. Keep the soil moist for several weeks until the plant establishes. Once established, it has moderate drought tolerance but performs better with consistent soil moisture during the growing season. Mulching can help retain soil moisture.
Ecological Role
Coprosma propinqua, also known as Mingimingi, plays several important ecological roles, particularly in its native New Zealand.
- Habitat and Shelter: It provides dense shelter and ground cover, offering crucial habitat for native birds, lizards, and geckos, including New Zealand's declining populations.
- Food Source: The plant produces berries that ripen from January to April, changing color from white to blue-black or orange to red. These berries serve as a vital food source for native birds, such as kererū and tūī, and lizards. The consumption of these fruits by animals aids in seed dispersal (frugivory).
- Revegetation and Restoration: Coprosma propinqua is a key species in riparian plantings and native restoration projects. Its hardiness and adaptability to diverse environments, ranging from coastal salt marshes to dry woodlands and various soil types (wet to well-drained), make it an effective pioneer shrub in revegetation efforts.
- Environmental Adaptation: This species is highly tolerant of a wide array of environmental conditions, including damp and dry sites, poor soils, and exposure to salt spray. Its dense, twiggy growth also allows it to thrive in wind-swept areas, where it can form natural barriers.
- Biodiversity Support: By providing food and shelter, Coprosma propinqua actively supports local birdlife and contributes to enhancing biodiversity in various ecosystems, including agricultural landscapes.
Uses & Significance
Garden Uses
- Excellent for native plant gardens and restoration
- Suitable for naturalistic landscape designs
- Low maintenance once established
- Contributes to local biodiversity
- Attractive to beneficial native wildlife
Landscaping Uses
Coprosma propinqua, also known as Mingimingi, is a versatile and hardy New Zealand native shrub or small tree with numerous landscaping applications. It is highly valued for its dense, bushy habit, attractive foliage, and ecological benefits.
- Hedging and Shelterbelts: Its dense growth and ability to tolerate pruning make it an excellent choice for both formal and informal hedges, as well as for creating shelterbelts.
- Wildlife Gardens: The plant produces small, fragrant flowers followed by attractive orange to red or blue to white berries that provide a vital food source for native birds and lizards, making it ideal for wildlife-friendly gardens.
- Native Restoration and Revegetation: Coprosma propinqua is a key species in native restoration and revegetation projects, particularly in coastal areas, lowland forests, scrublands, and wetland environments.
- Coastal and Exposed Sites: It is highly tolerant of salt spray, wind, and a wide range of soil conditions, making it well-suited for planting in coastal and other exposed locations.
- Wetland and Riparian Plantings: This species thrives in moist conditions and is often used in wetland plantings, along stream banks, and around ponds.
- Informal Screening and Boundary Planting: Its dense foliage provides effective informal screening and can be used for boundary planting.
- Mixed Plantings and Woodland Gardens: It can be incorporated into mixed plantings and woodland garden designs.
- Ornamental Plant: Coprosma propinqua is also used as an ornamental plant in gardens and landscapes due to its attractive appearance and low maintenance requirements. It can be grown as a standalone specimen or as ground cover.
Seasonal Care Calendar
Spring
Spring is an active growth period for Mingimingi (Coprosma propinqua). New growth emerges and this is an ideal time for planting new specimens. Monitor soil moisture as temperatures warm and growth accelerates.
- Active growth period with new foliage development
- Ideal time for planting new specimens
- Monitor soil moisture as temperatures rise
- Apply organic mulch if needed
Summer
Summer is typically the main growing season for Mingimingi (Coprosma propinqua). Ensure adequate watering during hot, dry periods, especially for young plants. Established plants show good heat tolerance with appropriate care.
- Peak growing season with active development
- Monitor watering needs during hot weather
- Young plants need consistent moisture
- Established plants show good heat tolerance
Autumn
During autumn, Mingimingi (Coprosma propinqua) begins to slow its growth as temperatures cool. This is another good time for planting as conditions become more favorable. Reduce watering frequency but maintain soil moisture.
- Growth slows as temperatures moderate
- Good time for planting new specimens
- Reduce watering frequency gradually
- Maintain soil moisture without overwatering
Winter
Winter is typically a dormant period for Mingimingi (Coprosma propinqua), with minimal growth activity. Reduce watering but ensure plants don't completely dry out. Most New Zealand natives are cold-hardy and require minimal winter protection.
- Dormant period with minimal growth activity
- Reduce watering but avoid complete drying
- Generally cold-hardy in most New Zealand climates
- Minimal winter protection required
When to Prune and How Much
Mingimingi (Coprosma propinqua) generally requires minimal pruning to maintain its natural form and health. Most maintenance involves removing dead or damaged growth and light shaping if needed.
- Remove dead, damaged, or diseased growth as needed
- Light pruning to maintain shape if desired
- Prune after flowering if applicable
- Avoid heavy pruning which can stress the plant
- Use clean, sharp tools to prevent disease
- Most natives maintain good form without regular pruning
Always use clean, sharp tools when pruning to minimize disease risk. Native plants typically maintain their natural form well and often require less intervention than exotic species.
How to Grow Mingimingi
From Fresh Translucent Berries
Fresh translucent berry propagation represents the most natural and reliable method for growing Mingimingi, taking advantage of this widespread native species' exceptional fruit production and natural dispersal strategy that has enabled it to establish across diverse New Zealand environments from sea level to 1500 meters elevation throughout shrublands, forest margins, and exposed sites. This remarkably hardy endemic produces abundant translucent berries that are among the most sought-after food sources by native birds including bellbirds and tui, providing excellent opportunities for propagation while supporting the species' natural frugivory dispersal cycles essential for ecosystem function across New Zealand's diverse landscapes. The species' extraordinary adaptation to diverse conditions including wind, salt, drought, and temperature extremes from coastal to montane environments makes it particularly valuable for challenging garden situations and restoration projects requiring plants capable of handling variable environmental stress while providing critical wildlife habitat through dense divaricating branches. Fresh berry propagation allows cultivation of genetic diversity essential for healthy populations while enabling gardeners to appreciate the remarkable adaptability that has made this species one of New Zealand's most widespread and ecologically important native shrubs. Collect ripe translucent berries during autumn when fruits have achieved their characteristic clear appearance and can be easily removed from the dense branching, timing collection to coincide with peak seed maturity for optimal viability and germination success. Choose berries that are fully developed, firm, and show good translucency typical of mature fruit, avoiding any that appear damaged, diseased, or prematurely dropped which might indicate compromised seed quality or reduced viability. Allow collected fruit to soften before processing, then wash thoroughly to remove all flesh and separate seeds from fruit material that could inhibit germination or promote fungal growth during the extended germination period characteristic of this species. Clean seeds by repeated washing until all fruit debris is removed, as any remaining pulp can significantly interfere with germination success, retaining the viable seeds while discarding any floating material that indicates poor quality. Prepare optimal germination medium using well-draining seed-raising mix with good moisture retention characteristics, ensuring pH levels between 6.0-7.0 that support healthy development for this adaptable species tolerant of various soil conditions. Sow fresh seeds onto firm bed of seed-raising mix, covering lightly with additional mix and watering thoroughly to provide optimal conditions for the extended germination period typical of this species. Cover seed trays with glass or plastic and place in warm, shady location to maintain consistent environmental conditions throughout the 6-9 month germination period that requires patience and consistent care. Maintain careful moisture management throughout the extended germination period, ensuring growing medium remains consistently moist but never waterlogged while monitoring for emergence signs that may occur over many months. Protect germination areas from disturbance by cats, mice, and other animals that could damage seeds or emerging seedlings during the vulnerable establishment period essential for successful propagation. Young seedlings develop slowly while establishing the robust root systems necessary for adaptation to challenging growing conditions, requiring protection from environmental stress and gradual acclimatization to garden conditions. Transplant successful seedlings when they reach sufficient size to handle garden conditions, providing growing environments that support transition to permanent locations where they can develop their characteristic dense habit and provide critical wildlife habitat. This method provides excellent genetic diversity while contributing to conservation efforts that support healthy populations of this ecologically critical species that provides unparalleled protection for small native birds through its dense divaricating branching structure.
From Easy-Rooting Cuttings
Easy-rooting cutting propagation offers an excellent vegetative method for growing Mingimingi that preserves the exact genetic characteristics of superior parent plants while providing reliable results for gardeners seeking to maintain specific wildlife habitat traits, growth habits, or adaptation characteristics that make exceptional specimens particularly valuable for restoration and wildlife garden applications. This approach is particularly valuable for propagating plants that demonstrate superior wildlife attraction, enhanced hardiness, or other desirable traits that can be preserved through careful vegetative propagation techniques suited to this easily propagated native species. The method works exceptionally well with Mingimingi because of this species' natural ability to develop adventitious roots readily under appropriate growing conditions, making it suitable for both home propagation and large-scale restoration projects requiring reliable plant production. Take 8-12cm semi-hardwood cuttings during late summer to autumn when current season's growth has achieved optimal maturity for rooting while retaining sufficient vigor for successful establishment under basic propagation conditions. Select healthy, vigorous shoots from middle portions of branches that display the characteristic small, glossy, dark green leaves and robust growth typical of healthy Mingimingi development, avoiding both very soft growth and completely hardened wood that may resist rooting. Cut sections with clean, sharp secateurs just below nodes, ensuring each cutting includes at least 2-3 nodes while selecting material that represents the best characteristics of the parent plant including dense growth habit and the wildlife-attracting features that make this species so valuable. Remove lower leaves carefully to reduce transpiration stress while retaining sufficient photosynthetic capacity in upper leaves, taking care not to damage the small leaves that provide energy for root development during the establishment period. Create light wounds at cutting bases if desired to enhance root initiation, though Mingimingi often roots successfully without wounding due to its naturally easy-rooting characteristics that make propagation straightforward. Apply rooting hormone if available, though many propagators achieve excellent success without hormone treatment due to this species' exceptional natural rooting ability that makes it one of the easiest native plants to propagate vegetatively. Insert prepared cuttings into well-draining cutting mix composed of quality propagation medium with good drainage characteristics, ensuring optimal growing conditions that support rapid root development without creating waterlogged conditions that could damage cutting material. Maintain optimal environmental conditions including moderate humidity and consistent temperatures around 18-22°C that support rapid root development, using simple propagation setups that provide adequate environmental control without specialized equipment. Provide bright, indirect light that supports photosynthesis without causing excessive stress to cutting material, replicating the forest margin conditions where this species naturally thrives and develops its characteristic form. Monitor cutting development throughout the 3-6 week rooting period, maintaining consistent environmental conditions while watching for signs of successful root development including new shoot growth and resistance when gently tested for root establishment. Root development occurs rapidly as cuttings establish the fibrous root systems characteristic of mature Mingimingi adapted to diverse growing conditions, typically showing successful establishment within a month under basic propagation conditions. Pot successful cuttings into well-drained mix and provide gradual hardening off before planting into permanent garden positions, ensuring successful transition to landscape cultivation where they can develop their characteristic wildlife habitat value. This easy method makes Mingimingi an excellent choice for restoration projects and wildlife gardens requiring reliable plant production while maintaining the genetic characteristics that make specific plants particularly valuable for native bird habitat creation.
From Wildlife Habitat Development
Wildlife habitat development provides an excellent approach to growing Mingimingi that maximizes this species' extraordinary value for creating serious wildlife habitat while establishing plantings that provide unparalleled protection for small native birds through dense divaricating branches and reliable food sources through sought-after translucent berries. This method is particularly valuable for gardeners and land managers seeking to create authentic native ecosystems that support bellbirds, tui, and other native species while establishing robust plant communities capable of handling diverse environmental conditions from coastal exposure to inland variations. Mingimingi serves as a keystone species for wildlife habitat due to its natural dense growth habit, exceptional wildlife value, and ability to establish across diverse site conditions while providing year-round shelter and seasonal food resources essential for native bird population support. Begin by identifying optimal wildlife habitat locations that provide diverse environmental conditions suitable for native bird communities, considering factors including shelter from prevailing winds, access to water sources, and integration with existing native vegetation that supports comprehensive ecosystem development. Design wildlife plantings that incorporate Mingimingi as a central component of dense shelter areas, spacing plants to encourage natural development of protective thickets while allowing room for companion species that enhance overall habitat diversity and functionality. Source multiple plants through combination of seed-grown specimens, cutting‑propagated plants, and nursery stock to ensure genetic diversity and habitat complexity while maintaining the natural variation that supports healthy bird populations requiring diverse shelter and food options. Prepare planting sites by improving drainage where necessary and incorporating organic matter to create optimal growing conditions that support rapid establishment and healthy long-term habitat development across various site conditions. Space habitat plantings 1-2m apart to encourage natural thicket development and protective cover formation while allowing adequate room for individual plant development and natural wildlife movement patterns through habitat areas. Plant during optimal seasonal windows in autumn or spring when environmental conditions support rapid establishment before plants face stress from summer heat or winter cold that can challenge habitat establishment success. Integrate with complementary native species including other coprosma varieties, native grasses, and understory plants that enhance habitat complexity while providing diverse food sources and shelter options for various native bird species throughout different seasons. Create diverse habitat structure by varying planting positions according to site topography and microclimatic conditions, establishing areas of dense cover alternating with more open spaces that accommodate different wildlife behavior patterns and feeding preferences. Implement appropriate maintenance regimes including selective pruning to maintain habitat structure while allowing natural wildlife access patterns, ensuring plantings continue to provide optimal shelter and food resources as they mature and develop. Monitor habitat establishment success through wildlife observation and plant performance assessment, documenting bird usage patterns and adjusting management approaches to enhance habitat value while maintaining plant health and community stability. Allow natural ecological processes including seed dispersal by frugivorous birds, natural regeneration, and wildlife-driven habitat modification to enhance initial plantings, creating dynamic wildlife areas that evolve naturally while maintaining essential habitat functions. This approach requires commitment to wildlife-focused management but creates invaluable habitat resources that provide lasting environmental benefits including native bird population support, ecosystem restoration, and authentic landscape development that demonstrates the remarkable wildlife value of well-established Mingimingi communities.
Pests & Diseases
Coprosma propinqua is generally considered pest-resistant. However, it can occasionally be affected by certain pests and diseases.
Pests:
- Scale: Can occasionally infest the plant.
- Aphids: Can occasionally infest the plant.
Diseases:
- Leaf spots: Caused by a native fungal pathogen, these are typically pale yellow circular or irregular spots on the underside of leaves and are not known to cause significant long-term damage to the host plant.
Cultural Significance
Mingimingi (Coprosma propinqua) holds cultural significance for Mori, who traditionally used various parts of the plant. Its berries were a food source, and the wood was used for small tools and weaving. The plant's dense, divaricating branches also provided shelter and nesting sites for native birds, contributing to traditional ecological knowledge and resource management.
Bonus Tip
Mingimingi (Coprosma propinqua) is an exceptional plant for attracting native birds to your garden. Its abundant translucent blue berries are a favorite food source for various bird species, especially during autumn and winter. The dense, divaricating branches also provide excellent shelter and nesting sites for small native birds, making it a valuable addition to any wildlife-friendly garden or restoration project.
