Coprosma robusta
Karamū is a robust evergreen shrub or small tree reaching 3-6 meters tall, distinguished by its large, glossy dark green leaves and spectacular displays of bright orange berries that cover the plant in autumn and winter. This hardy species has attractive reddish-brown bark and dense branching that provides excellent wildlife habitat. Found throughout New Zealand's forests, scrublands, and coastal areas, it's one of the most adaptable and reliable natives for gardens. The abundant berries make it invaluable for attracting native birds, earning it recognition as an essential species among New Zealand's native shrubs
Image credit: Karamū (Coprosma robusta). Wikipedia
| Scientific Name | Coprosma robusta |
|---|---|
| Height | 3-6 meters |
| Spread | 2-4 meters |
| Water Needs | Low to moderate |
| Light | Full sun to partial shade |
| Frost Tolerance | High (hardy to -12°C) |
| Salt Tolerance | High (excellent coastal tolerance) |
| Growth Rate | Moderate to fast |
| Lifespan | 50-100 years |
Karamū grows throughout New Zealand from sea level to 1500 meters elevation in diverse habitats including forests, scrublands, and coastal areas. This extremely adaptable species thrives in a wide range of climates from warm coastal areas to cool mountain valleys, tolerating both drought and high rainfall conditions. It's one of our most climate-versatile natives.
| 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 |
Karamū is extremely adaptable to diverse soil conditions:
Karamū performs well across light conditions:
Karamū has excellent drought tolerance once established:
Karamū tolerates heavy pruning and responds vigorously to cutting:
Use sharp, clean tools for best results. Karamū's vigorous response makes it very forgiving of pruning mistakes and suitable for topiary work.
Plant Karamū any time from spring through autumn when soil conditions allow. This extremely hardy species establishes quickly and tolerates adverse planting conditions better than most natives.
Choose a site with:
Provide occasional watering during first year if conditions are very dry. Karamū is one of the easiest native plants to establish and requires minimal ongoing care.
Karamū propagates easily from the abundant orange berries:
Note: Coprosma species are dioecious (separate male and female plants), so you'll need both sexes for berry production.
Vegetative propagation is highly successful:
Karamū often self-seeds prolifically:
Karamū has served as an important multipurpose plant throughout New Zealand's cultural history, valued for both its practical uses and its role in traditional ecological knowledge:
Today, Karamū is a cornerstone species in native revegetation and wildlife habitat restoration. Its combination of extreme hardiness, rapid establishment, and exceptional wildlife value makes it essential for ecological restoration projects throughout New Zealand.
Karamū's robust nature means it's rarely seriously damaged by pests or diseases. Its vigorous growth allows quick recovery from most problems.
Plant both male and female Karamū plants to ensure abundant berry production - a ratio of 1 male to 3-4 females works well. The brilliant orange berries are at their most spectacular during winter months when few other food sources are available, creating a vital wildlife feeding station. Position near windows where you can watch the constant parade of native birds enjoying the feast.
Karamū (Coprosma robusta) is a prominent member of New Zealand's highly diverse *Coprosma* genus, which includes a wide array of shrubs and small trees. Many related species share its adaptability and ecological value, offering varied foliage, growth habits, and berry colors. Consider other robust species like *Coprosma lucida* or *Coprosma repens* for similar large-scale plantings, or explore smaller, more intricate forms such as *Coprosma propinqua* or *Coprosma areolata* for different garden applications, all contributing to the rich tapestry of New Zealand's native flora.
Learn more about the cultural significance of native shrubs in Cultural Plants.
Coprosma robusta (karamū) is a vigorous shrub to small tree with large, glossy leaves, stout branchlets, and heavy crops of bright orange berries. The strong form and reliability make it indispensable in native schemes.
Widespread from coastal to lowland forest margins, riparian edges, and regenerating scrub on a wide range of free–draining soils with moderate moisture.
Provides abundant nectar/pollen for insects and copious berries for birds in late autumn to winter, sustaining wildlife through lean seasons. Dense structure offers shelter for nesting.
Acts as a keystone mid–storey species in restoration, accelerating succession by shading weeds, improving microclimate, and supplying food webs with fruit.
Water regularly through first summer; mulch 5–8 cm. Clip hedges lightly and often to build density. Minimal feeding required; avoid excessive nitrogen.
Prune after fruiting to maintain height and width. Remove dead or rubbing wood. Monitor for scale in sheltered, humid spots and manage with oils if required.
Wildlife hedges, shelterbelts, and screens; specimen for quick structure. Combines with pittosporum, griselinia, flaxes, and understory ferns like Necklace Fern for robust, low–care plantings.
Widespread and Not Threatened. In restoration, eco–source plants and maintain weed control to speed canopy closure and berry production.
This plant has cultural associations in Aotearoa and is valued in restoration and gardens for ecological services; use eco‑sourced stock near natural areas.
Karamu holds significant cultural importance for Māori, with extensive traditional uses including edible berries rich in vitamin C that helped prevent scurvy, and leaves brewed into medicinal teas for treating kidney problems, bladder infections, and stomach ailments. The plant had spiritual significance in Māori culture, with branches used to make ceremonial wands for diagnosing illnesses, while the wood provided material for tools and weapons. Early European settlers adopted the practice of using karamu leaves as a tea substitute, recognizing its value from Māori knowledge.
