Coprosma ‘Pina Colada’: A Colorful Evergreen Shrub for Your Garden

Coprosma ‘Pina Colada’, also known as the Pina Colada Mirror Bush, is a vibrant and eye-catching evergreen shrub that can add a burst of color to any garden. This shrub, belonging to the Rubiaceae family, is native to New Zealand and is admired for its glossy, variegated foliage. Its stunning leaves change color with the seasons, making it a dynamic addition to landscapes. This article provides a comprehensive guide on Coprosma ‘Pina Colada’, covering its background, description, care instructions, and propagation methods.

Background and Plant Family

Coprosma ‘Pina Colada’ is a member of the Rubiaceae family, commonly known as the Madder family. This family includes a wide variety of plants, from coffee and gardenias to bedstraws. The genus Coprosma is native to Australasia, particularly New Zealand, and is known for its glossy foliage and tolerance to coastal conditions. The ‘Pina Colada’ variety is a sport of Coprosma ‘Tequila Sunrise’, bred for its unique and vibrant foliage.

Description

Coprosma ‘Pina Colada’ is an evergreen shrub that typically reaches a height of 4-5 feet (1.2-1.5 meters) and a width of 3-4 feet (0.9-1.2 meters). It has an upright, mounding growth habit with thick, glossy leaves. The foliage is its most striking feature, displaying a yellow-gold color with deep red-orange wavy margins. In cooler weather, the leaf margins become even more pronounced, turning vivid orange to red, which adds to the plant’s year-round appeal.

Care Instructions for Coprosma ‘Pina Colada’:

Light Requirements:

Best grown in full sun to partial shade.
Prefers cool sun or light shade, especially in hot inland climates.

Watering:

Requires moderate watering.
Irrigate occasionally to regularly, ensuring the soil remains moist but not waterlogged.

Soil:

Thrives in enriched, slightly acidic, well-draining soil.
Adding organic matter such as compost can improve soil fertility and drainage.

Temperature and Hardiness:

Hardy in USDA zones 9a-11.
Can tolerate temperatures down to 20-25°F (-6.7 to -3.9°C).

Fertilization:

Feed annually with a tree and shrub fertilizer before new growth appears.

Pruning:

Prune as needed to maintain a tidy appearance.
Follows pruning group 8 guidelines, which involves light trimming to shape the plant.

Pests and Diseases:

Generally pest-free and disease-free, making it a low-maintenance option for gardeners.

Landscape Uses:

Ideal for use as an accent plant, low hedge, or in containers.
Suitable for city and courtyard gardens, gravel gardens, patio and container plants, and sub-tropical, and Mediterranean climate gardens.
Performs well in wall-side borders and can tolerate seaside conditions.

Propagation

Coprosma ‘Pina Colada’ can be propagated by semi-hardwood cuttings. Here’s how to propagate this plant:

Take Cuttings:
- Select healthy, semi-hardwood stems, preferably from mid-summer to early autumn.
- Cut sections about 4-6 inches (10-15 cm) long just below a node.
Prepare Cuttings:
- Remove the lower leaves, leaving a few at the top.
- Dip the cut end in rooting hormone to encourage root development.
Plant Cuttings:
- Plant the cuttings in a well-draining propagation mix.
- Place in a bright, filtered light area with good ventilation.
Care for Cuttings:
- Keep the soil moist but not waterlogged.
- Covering the cuttings with a plastic bag can help maintain humidity.
- Once roots develop, typically in a few weeks, gradually acclimate the new plants to outdoor conditions.

Conclusion

Coprosma ‘Pina Colada’ is a versatile and visually striking shrub that brings dynamic color to gardens throughout the year. Its glossy, variegated foliage and ease of care make it an excellent choice for both novice and experienced gardeners. Whether used as an accent plant, a low hedge, or in containers, ‘Pina Colada’ adds a touch of vibrancy and elegance to any landscape. By following the provided care and propagation guidelines, you can enjoy the beauty of this remarkable plant in your garden.