Coprosma tenuicaulis
Swamp Coprosma, known in te reo MÄori as hukihuki, is a distinctive native shrub perfectly adapted to wetland environments. With its slender interlacing branches and small olive-green leaves, this hardy species thrives in permanently moist conditions where many plants struggle. It produces dark berries that provide crucial food for native birds and is invaluable for bog gardens, stream margins, and wetland restoration projects. wetland plants
Image credit: Swamp Coprosma (Coprosma tenuicaulis). Wikipedia
| Scientific Name | Coprosma tenuicaulis |
|---|---|
| MÄori Name | Hukihuki |
| Height | 3-4 meters |
| Spread | 1.5 meters |
| Water Needs | High |
| Light | Full sun to partial shade |
| Frost Tolerance | Moderate |
| Salt Tolerance | Low |
| Growth Rate | Moderate |
| Lifespan | Long-lived perennial |
Swamp Coprosma thrives in temperate New Zealand conditions and is primarily suited to lowland climates. It naturally occurs in boggy areas, wetland margins, and can even grow in water up to 30cm deep. This makes it ideal for areas with consistent moisture and moderate temperatures.
| City | Climate Suitability |
|---|---|
| Whangārei | Ideal |
| Auckland | Ideal |
| Hamilton | Ideal |
| Tauranga | Ideal |
| Rotorua | Ideal |
| Gisborne | Ideal |
| New Plymouth | Ideal |
| Napier | Moderate |
| Whanganui | Ideal |
| Palmerston North | Ideal |
| Wellington | Ideal |
| Nelson | Ideal |
| Christchurch | Moderate |
| Dunedin | Moderate |
| Invercargill | Moderate |
Swamp Coprosma has unique soil requirements suited to wetland conditions:
Swamp Coprosma is adaptable to various light conditions:
High water needs make this plant perfect for wet areas:
Swamp Coprosma generally requires minimal pruning but responds well when shaping is needed:
The natural interlacing branch structure is attractive and should be preserved. Focus on enhancing the plant's natural form while removing problematic growth.
The best time to plant Swamp Coprosma is during spring when active growth begins, or in autumn when temperatures moderate. The consistent moisture requirements make timing less critical than for drought-sensitive plants.
Choose a site with:
Once planted in suitable wet conditions, Swamp Coprosma requires minimal care. Ensure water levels remain consistent, especially during establishment phase.
Swamp Coprosma propagates easily from fresh seed:
Semi-hardwood cuttings root easily with proper care:
Move established seedlings or rooted cuttings to final wet positions during mild weather, preferably spring or early autumn.
Swamp Coprosma (hukihuki in te reo MÄori) represents an important component of New Zealand's wetland heritage, embodying the rich diversity of plant communities that evolved in Aotearoa's varied environments:
As wetland habitats have been significantly reduced throughout New Zealand, plants like Swamp Coprosma have become increasingly important for maintaining connections between remaining wetland areas and supporting native wildlife populations that depend on these specialized environments.
Swamp Coprosma is generally robust and disease-resistant when grown in suitable wet conditions. Most problems arise from environmental stress rather than serious pest or disease issues.
Create a stunning native wetland garden by combining Swamp Coprosma with cabbage trees (Cordyline australis), native sedges like Carex species, and other moisture-loving natives. Plant them around a natural or artificial pond for a low-maintenance, ecologically valuable feature that attracts native birds and provides year-round interest with minimal inputs.
Swamp Coprosma (Coprosma tenuicaulis) is part of a highly diverse genus of native New Zealand shrubs, with many species offering unique characteristics and ecological roles. Exploring other Coprosma varieties can reveal a fascinating range of foliage types, growth habits, and berry colors, many of which share similar preferences for well-drained soils and varying light conditions. Consider other robust species like *Coprosma linariifolia* or *Coprosma lucida* for similar large-scale plantings, or explore smaller, more delicate forms for rockeries and containers, all contributing to the rich tapestry of New Zealand's native flora.
Learn more about the cultural significance of wetland plants in Cultural Plants.
Coprosma species are evergreen shrubs or small trees with opposite leaves, small flowers, and colourful berries. This species forms a tidy framework with small to medium leaves and seasonal orange to red fruit that attracts native birds.
Lowland to montane forest margins, light scrub, and regenerating woodland on free-draining soils with reasonable moisture. Performs best with good light and airflow.
Provides nectar and pollen for insects; berries for birds that disperse seed locally. Dense branchwork offers microhabitats and shelter for invertebrates and small birds.
Acts as a mid-storey framework species, quickly adding cover and food while tolerating varied conditions. Useful for building wildlife corridors and shading weeds.
Water through the first summer; mulch annually to conserve moisture. Minimal feeding required; a light spring feed suffices on poor soils.
Tip-prune lightly to maintain form and density. Remove dead or crossing wood as needed. Monitor for scale on stressed plants and improve airflow if issues arise.
Useful in wildlife hedges, mixed native borders, and shelterbelts. Pairs well with pittosporum, olearia, hebes, and flaxes for layered, resilient plantings.
Generally Not Threatened and common in the wild. In restoration, use eco-sourced plants appropriate to the local provenance and control weeds during establishment.
This plant has cultural associations in Aotearoa and is valued in restoration and gardens for ecological services; use eco‑sourced stock near natural areas.
Coprosma species held important cultural significance for Māori, with the orange berries of larger species like karamū (C. robusta) eaten by children as a traditional food source. Kanono (C. grandifolia) was particularly valued for its bark, which provided a vibrant orange dye used in traditional crafts and ceremonial items. These versatile shrubs were integrated into daily life, providing both sustenance and materials for cultural practices.
