Coprosma Roys Red
Common Names: Roy’s Red Coprosma
Family: Rubiaceae
Origin: New Zealand (cultivar)
Plant Type: Evergreen Shrub Overview:
Coprosma ‘Roy’s Red’ is a stunning native shrub prized for its strikingly vibrant red foliage that adds bold color to gardens year-round. Compact and dense in habit, it is perfect for hedging, screening, or as a standout specimen plant in native, coastal, and urban gardens. Its bright leaves provide excellent contrast against other greens in mixed borders. Key Features:
Foliage: Glossy, small to medium leaves with vivid red hues, especially intense in cool weather; evergreen.
Flowers / Fruit: Small, inconspicuous flowers; female plants produce bright red-orange berries attractive to birds.
Form & Habit: Dense, compact, rounded shrub.
Growth Rate: Moderate
Cultural & Ecological Value: Provides shelter and food for native birds; supports local ecosystems. Mature Size: Attribute Size Height 1.5–2 m Spread 1.5–2 m Form Dense, rounded shrub Ideal Growing Conditions: Requirement Detail Light Full sun to partial shade Water Moderate; drought tolerant once established Soil Well-drained soil pH Range Neutral to slightly acidic Frost Tolerance Hardy to approx. –8 °C Landscaping & Garden Uses:
Colourful hedging and screening
Mixed native and exotic shrub borders
Wildlife gardens supporting birds and pollinators
Coastal and urban garden planting
Containers and patio gardens Care & Maintenance:
Pruning: Light pruning after flowering to maintain compact shape.
Watering: Water regularly while establishing; drought tolerant once mature.
Feeding: Fertilise in spring with balanced fertiliser for vibrant foliage.
Pests & Diseases: Generally pest-free; monitor for scale or leaf spot.
Additional Tips: Mulch to conserve moisture and suppress weeds. Fun Fact / Botanical Insight:
Coprosma ‘Roy’s Red’ is a popular cultivar developed for its brilliant red foliage, providing year-round colour interest unlike many other native shrubs. Why Choose Coprosma ‘Roy’s Red’?
Its vivid red foliage, compact form, and hardiness make Coprosma ‘Roy’s Red’ a perfect choice for gardeners wanting a bold, low-maintenance native shrub with strong visual impact.