Mirror Plant
coprosma repens
Also known as: ["Mirror Plant","Glossy Leaf Coprosma"]
Overview
A glossy-leaved evergreen shrub native to New Zealand, known for its vibrant foliage and adaptability to various conditions.
Benefits & Perks
["aesthetic foliage","wildlife attractant (bees, butterflies, birds)","drought tolerant","shade tolerant"]
Botanical Classification
| Phylum: | Magnoliophyta |
| Class: | Magnoliopsida |
| Order: | Gentianales |
| Family: | Rubiaceae |
| Genus: | Coprosma |
| Botanical Name: | Coprosma repens |
Plant Characteristics
Basic Information
- Category: Shrubs
- Suitable Location: indoor pot or sheltered garden bed
- Suitable For:
- Is Weed: No
- Allergenicity: low
Environmental Needs
- Climate: {"temperatureRange":"5–30°C"}
- Hardiness: {"zones":"9–11"}
- Misting: every 2–3 days in dry indoor conditions
- Drainage: Fast-draining to prevent waterlogging.
- Soil Type: Well-draining potting mix with peat, perlite, and some organic matter.
Maintenance Level
- Maintenance Level: moderate
- Toughness Level: moderate
- Pruning Frequency: Annually in late winter or early spring; light pruning can be done as needed.
- Pruning Intensity: Moderate; remove up to one-third of growth if overgrown.
Care Details
Ideal Sunlight Coverage:
Bright indirect light for 6–8 hours daily; can tolerate partial shade, especially in hot climates.
Sunlight Tolerance Tips:
Acclimate gradually to intense light to prevent scorching; protect from direct midday sun; adjust indoor placement to mimic natural light patterns.
Care Requirements
Care Difficulty
easymoderate
Sunlight
partial shade to full sun
Rotate plant for even growth; use sheer curtains to filter intense light; avoid sudden light changes.
Watering
every 7–10 days during active growth, reduce in winter
Water thoroughly until it drains from the bottom, allow soil to dry slightly between waterings, avoid overwatering especially in winter.
Soil
well-draining, fertile potting mix
pH: Acidic to neutral (pH 5.5–7.0).
Use a mix with good drainage; avoid heavy clay soils; top-dress with compost occasionally.
Temperature
Prefers 60–75°F (15–24°C); tolerates mild frosts but thrives in moderate temperatures.
Avoid sudden temperature shifts; protect from drafts; maintain moderate humidity.
Fertilizing
every 4–6 weeks during spring and summer
Apply fertilizer after watering to prevent root burn; flush soil occasionally to prevent salt buildup; avoid over-fertilizing.
Propagation
Methods
Stem cuttings in spring or early summer.
Step-by-Step Propagation Guide
- Take 4–6 inch cuttings, remove lower leaves, dip in hormone, plant in medium, keep moist and humid.
Best Time: Spring or early summer when the plant is actively growing.
Environment
High humidity (70–80%), warm temperatures (65–75°F), indirect light.
Medium
Peat-based mix with perlite or sand for good drainage.
Hormone
Rooting hormone recommended for faster root development.
Timeline
Roots in 4–8 weeks; establish in new pot after 3–4 months.
Tools Needed
Pruners, rooting hormone, small pots, plastic bags or propagator.
Quick Tips
Use healthy, non-flowering stems; maintain consistent moisture; provide bottom heat if possible.
Pruning & Repotting
Pruning Guide
Method
Selective cutting of stems to maintain shape and promote new growth.
Pruning Plan
Shape plant, encourage bushier growth, remove dead or leggy stems.
Tools
Clean, sharp pruners or scissors, disinfectant.
Checklist
Disinfect tools, prune dead/leggy stems, shape evenly, clean up debris.
Repotting Guide
Best Season
Spring, before new growth begins.
Pot Size
One size larger pot; ensure good drainage holes.
Method
Remove plant gently, trim roots if needed, place in new pot with fresh soil, water lightly.
Suggestions
Repot every 2–3 years or when roots fill the pot; promotes fresh soil and root health.
Checklist
Check root bound status, prepare new pot, trim roots if necessary, use fresh soil, water lightly.
Advanced Care Tips
Watering Mastery
Watering Checklist
Check soil moisture, water thoroughly, ensure drainage, adjust for season.
How to Apply Water Properly
Water directly at the root zone, ensure even moisture distribution, allow excess water to drain, water in the morning to reduce evaporation and fungal risk.
Watering Schedule Tips
Water deeply once the top inch of soil feels dry; reduce frequency in winter to prevent root rot.
Soil Improvement
Add perlite or sand for drainage, incorporate organic matter for fertility, ensure good aeration.
Temperature Stress Management
Signs of Temperature Issues
Leaf drop, yellowing, stunted growth, or browning leaf edges.
Cold Stress
Slows growth, may cause leaf discoloration or drop if exposed to prolonged cold below 50°F (10°C).
Solution: Move to a warmer location, insulate roots with mulch, avoid cold drafts, protect from frost.
Hot Stress
Wilting, leaf scorch, or leaf drop due to excessive heat and dryness.
Solution: Provide shade, increase humidity, water more frequently, ensure good air circulation.
Fertilizing Guide
Fertilizing Checklist
Check season, dilute fertilizer, water before feeding, avoid contact with leaves.
Fertilizing Method
Use balanced liquid fertilizer diluted to half strength every 4–6 weeks during growing season (spring/summer); reduce or stop in fall/winter.
Common Problems & Solutions
Toxicity Warning
Cats
Non-toxicCoprosma repens is not considered toxic to cats. The plant does not contain known toxic substances that would pose a risk to feline health upon ingestion or contact.
⚡ Toxic If:
Generally not toxic
Dogs
Non-toxicCoprosma repens is not known to be toxic to dogs. There are no documented cases of toxicity in canines from exposure to this plant.
⚡ Toxic If:
Generally not toxic
Humans
Non-toxicCoprosma repens, commonly known as Mirror Plant, is not considered toxic to humans under normal circumstances. The plant does not produce any known toxic compounds that would cause adverse effects upon ingestion or contact.
⚡ Toxic If:
Generally not toxic
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: How do I prune Coprosma repens?
A: Prune lightly in late winter or early spring to maintain shape and encourage bushier growth.
Q: Is Coprosma repens suitable for coastal gardens?
A: Yes, it is highly salt-tolerant and thrives in coastal conditions.
Q: Does Coprosma repens require full sun?
A: It prefers partial shade but can tolerate full sun with adequate moisture.
Quick Reference
| Family: | Rubiaceae |
| Care: | easy |
| Light: | partial shade to full sun |
| Water: | every 7–10 days during activ |
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