Coprosma Mini Mac, also known as Mirror Bush, is an evergreen shrub, native to New Zealand and the Pacific Islands. It is a low-maintenance plant that can be used in a variety of landscaping designs. It is a dwarf cultivar of the Coprosma repens species, which is found in coastal regions throughout New Zealand. This compact, rounded shrub has a slow growth rate and produces small, glossy, oval leaves that range in colour from green to bronze and red, depending on the season and light exposure. Coprosma Mini Mac was first introduced into cultivation in New Zealand by Jack Hobbs, a plant breeder, in the 1970s.
It is a small shrub that typically grows up to 50cm in height and width. Its leaves are oval-shaped, 1-2 cm long, and have a glossy surface. The plant produces small, insignificant flowers that are followed by small, fleshy berries that range in colour from green to red. The berries are not edible for humans but are attractive to birds. It is native to coastal regions of New Zealand and is well-suited for use in coastal gardens. It can also be used as a low-maintenance plant in rock gardens, as a hedge, or in containers. It is important to note that the plant does not tolerate heavy frost and is best suited for temperate climates.
 
Care
Coprosma Mini Mac is a low-maintenance plant that requires little care once established. It prefers a well-draining soil that is rich in organic matter. The plant should be watered regularly during the first year after planting to help establish its roots. After that, it can tolerate some drought and requires only occasional watering.
 
Birds and Bees
It is an attractive plant for birds, as the fleshy berries provide a source of food. The plant also produces small, insignificant flowers that can attract bees and other pollinators.
 
Watering
Coprosma Mini Mac prefers moist but well-draining soil. The plant should be watered regularly during the first year after planting to help establish its roots. After that, it can tolerate some drought and requires only occasional watering.
 
Feeding
It can be fertilized with a slow-release fertilizer in the spring and autumn. It is important to avoid over-fertilizing the plant, as this can lead to excessive growth and a weaker plant structure.
 
Overwintering
Coprosma Mini Mac is not frost-tolerant and is best suited for temperate climates. In colder regions, the plant can be overwintered indoors or in a greenhouse.
 
Pruning
They can be pruned lightly in the spring to shape the plant and remove any damaged or dead branches. This will help to maintain a tidy appearance and encourage new growth. However, it is important to avoid pruning the plant too heavily, as this can lead to a weak structure and reduced flowering.
 
Propagation
Coprosma Mini Mac can be propagated by taking cuttings in the summer. Cuttings should be taken from new growth and rooted in a well-draining soil mix.
 
Diseases and Pests
They are generally a healthy plant that are not prone to many diseases. However, it can be susceptible to root rot if the soil is too wet or poorly drained. In terms of pests, the plant can be affected by scale insects, which can be treated with an insecticidal soap or horticultural oil spray.
 
Substitutes
Some substitutes for Coprosma Mini Mac include:
Coprosma 'Pacific Sunrise': This cultivar has bright pink and red foliage that makes it stand out in the garden.
Hebe 'Wiri Mist': This evergreen shrub has bright green leaves and produces small, white flowers in the summer.
Pittosporum 'Golf Ball': This dwarf shrub has a similar rounded shape and glossy foliage to Coprosma Mini Mac.
 
Plants to Pair with
Coprosma Mini Mac can be paired with a variety of other plants to create a striking landscape design. Some good companion plants include:
Phormium ‘Dark Delight’: This evergreen plant has dark brown leaves that contrast well with the glossy foliage of Coprosma Mini Mac.
Coprosma ‘Lobster’: The bright orange stems of this plant also make a striking contrast with the bright green leaves of Coprosma Mini Mac, and the upright form gives vertical structure.