Chatham Island Korokio Corokia macrocarpa
ABOUT
Corokia macrocarpa, also known as Chatham Island Korokio, is a distinctive plant with a unique and striking appearance. Often noted for its zig-zagging branches, the structure has an almost wiry quality that gives the plant a tangled, yet artistically appealing look. The leaves are small and rounded with a leathery texture and come in a variety of colors from green to grey, sometimes with a silvery sheen that can catch the light. These leaves are densely packed along the irregular branches, contributing to the plant's dense appearance. Throughout its growing season, Chatham Island Korokio may produce small, yellow, star-shaped flowers that are subtly fragrant, adding a delicate visual appeal and aroma to the plant's presentation. Following the flowering period, the plant may bear fruits that are visually striking in their own right, commonly orange-red berries which contrast vividly against the foliage and the dark, interlocking branches. This combination of odd branch shapes, colorful foliage, sweetly-scented flowers, and bright berries makes Chatham Island Korokio a visually complex and ornamental plant that catches the eye in gardens and landscape designs.
About this plant
NamesFamily
Argophyllaceae
Synonyms
Chatham Island Korokio, Large-fruited Corokia
Common names
Corokia buddleioides, Corokia cotoneaster var. buddleioides, Corokia macrocarpa var. atropurpurea, Corokia macrocarpa var. viridis, Corokia virgata var. microcarpa.
ToxicityTo humans
There is limited information available regarding the toxicity of Corokia macrocarpa, commonly known as wireplant, to humans. As of my knowledge cutoff in 2023, wireplant is not widely known to be toxic to humans. However, as with many plants, it is generally recommended to avoid ingesting parts of plants that are not known to be edible as they may cause gastrointestinal discomfort or other adverse reactions. If wireplant is found to be poisonous to humans in the future, symptoms would likely include gastrointestinal issues such as nausea, vomiting, and diarrhea, but since there is no specific information on its toxicity, seeking medical advice if ingestion occurs is advisable.
To pets
There is limited information available regarding the toxicity of Corokia macrocarpa, commonly known as wireplant, to pets. As of the knowledge cutoff in 2023, wireplant is not widely known to be toxic to pets. Similar to its toxicity to humans, if pets ingest parts of the wireplant and it is found to be toxic, symptoms might include vomiting, diarrhea, and other signs of gastrointestinal distress. Since the plant's toxicity is not well-documented, pet owners should exercise caution and prevent pets from ingesting it. If a pet does ingest wireplant and shows adverse symptoms, a veterinarian should be consulted.
CharacteristicsLife cycle
Perennials
Foliage type
Evergreen
Color of leaves
Green
Flower color
Yellow
Height
3-5 feet (0.9-1.5 meters)
Spread
3-5 feet (0.9-1.5 meters)
Plant type
Shrub
Hardiness zones
8-11
Native area
New Zealand
Benefits
General Benefits- Ornamental beauty: Corokia macrocarpa, commonly known as Chatham Island Korokia, adds aesthetic value to gardens with its unique silver-gray foliage and contrasting yellow flowers.
- Habitat for wildlife: The Chatham Island Korokia provides shelter and nesting sites for birds, as well as a source of nectar for insects and birds.
- Low maintenance: Once established, this plant requires minimal care, making it suitable for gardeners of all skill levels.
- Drought tolerance: It is capable of surviving in dry conditions, which is especially beneficial in areas with water restrictions or arid climates.
- Wind resistance: With its sturdy structure, the Chatham Island Korokia can withstand strong winds, making it ideal for coastal or exposed landscapes.
Medical PropertiesThis plant is not used for medical purposes.
Air-purifying QualitiesThis plant is not specifically known for air purifying qualities.
Other Uses- Corokia macrocarpa, commonly referred to as Chatham Island Korokio, can be utilized as a natural barrier or hedge due to its dense and intricate branching.
- The silver-grey to olive-green foliage of Chatham Island Korokio offers a contrasting texture and color in rock gardens or coastal landscapes.
- Bonsai artists may employ Chatham Island Korokio for its unique form and the challenge it presents in training the small leaves and wiry branches.
- This plant’s interesting shapes and structure are popular in contemporary floral arrangements, providing a unique aesthetic.
- The wood of Chatham Island Korokio, being quite hard and durable, can be used in crafting small decorative items or in jewelry making as beads.
- When dried, the branches can be used to create intricate natural sculptures or wall art due to their visually appealing twists and turns.
- In garden design, Chatham Island Korokio can serve as a windbreak, particularly in coastal locations with strong winds.
- The plant’s dense form offers a protected habitat for birds, serving as nesting sites or a shelter from predators.
- Chatham Island Korokio can be used in themed gardens, like xeriscaping projects, due to its low water requirement once established.
- The plant’s berries, although not widely known for commercial use, can be considered for ornamental use during seasonal displays or crafts.
Interesting Facts
Feng ShuiThe Corokia is not used in Feng Shui practice.
Zodiac Sign CompitabilityThe Corokia is not used in astrology practice.
Plant Symbolism- Resilience: Corokia macrocarpa, commonly known as Coastal Corokia, tends to grow in harsh coastal environments, symbolizing the ability to endure and thrive even in challenging conditions.
- Survival: The Coastal Corokia's capacity to survive with minimal water and poor soil quality stands for adaptability and survival in tough circumstances.
- Protection: With its dense and tangled branches, Coastal Corokia often serves as a windbreak or shelter for other plants, symbolizing protection and shelter from adversity.
- Uniqueness: The peculiar and distinctively zigzagging growth pattern of Coastal Corokia's branches signifies uniqueness and the celebration of individuality.
WaterThe Wire Netting Bush typically prefers soil that is moist but well-drained. Water the plant deeply once a week, allowing the water to penetrate the soil to reach the root zone. During the growing season, ensure it receives about 1 inch of water weekly, either from rainfall or manual watering. In the hotter months or if the plant is in a container, it may require watering twice a week. During the winter or cooler seasons, reduce watering to every other week or whenever the soil feels dry to the touch 2 inches below the surface, using a few gallons per watering session depending on the size and maturity of the plant.
LightThe Wire Netting Bush thrives in full sun to partial shade conditions. It is best situated in a spot where it can receive at least 6 to 8 hours of direct sunlight daily; however, some afternoon shade can be beneficial in extremely hot climates. Avoid deep shade as this can impair the plant's growth and the vibrancy of its foliage.
TemperatureThe Wire Netting Bush fares well in a wide range of temperatures, generally between 50°F and 90°F, but it can survive brief periods of colder temperatures down to 20°F. Ideally, maintain an environment where the temperature does not drop below freezing for an extended time. The plant is most robust when the temperature stays within 60°F to 80°F ideal range.
PruningPruning the Wire Netting Bush is essential for maintaining its shape and encouraging new growth. Prune the plant in late winter or early spring before new growth begins. Remove any dead or damaged branches and shape as desired. Pruning is not required frequently, once a year is typically sufficient unless the plant is being trained or shaped more intensively.
CleaningAs needed
SoilThe best soil mix for Corokia cotoneaster, commonly known as Wire Netting Bush, is a well-draining potting mix amended with sand or perlite to enhance drainage. It thrives in moderately fertile soil with a slightly acidic to neutral pH, ideally between 6.0 and 7.0.
RepottingWire Netting Bush should be repotted every two to three years to prevent it from becoming root-bound and to refresh the soil. Choose a slightly larger pot each time to allow for growth.
Humidity & MistingWire Netting Bush prefers moderate humidity levels but is quite adaptable and can tolerate the drier conditions typically found in homes.
Suitable locationsIndoor
Place in bright, indirect light and protect from drafts.
Outdoor
Grow in full sun to partial shade, shelter from strong winds.
Hardiness zone
7-10 USDA
Life cycleCorokia macrocarpa, commonly known as Chatham Island korokio, begins its life as a seed, which germinates in favorable conditions of moist soil and appropriate temperatures. Upon germination, the seedling emerges, developing its root system and first leaves, and over time, it establishes itself as a young plant with a growing woody stem. As it matures, Chatham Island korokio forms a dense shrub with small, dark green leaves and assumes its characteristic twisted and interlacing branch structure, which is a natural adaptation to prevent wind damage. The plant reaches reproductive maturity within a few years, producing small, star-shaped yellow flowers that are followed by conspicuous red berries, which are attractive to birds and facilitate seed dispersal. After several years to decades, depending on environmental conditions, Chatham Island korokio will eventually reach old age, with a decrease in vigor and productivity leading to its natural decline and death. Throughout its life cycle, the plant may experience cycles of growth and dormancy, often triggered by seasonal changes.
PropogationPropogation time
Spring-Early Summer
Corokia macrocarpa, commonly known as wire-netting bush, is typically propagated through semi-hardwood cuttings. The best time to take cuttings for propagation is during the late summer to early fall, when the plant has finished its primary growth phase but the wood hasn't fully hardened. To propagate by cutting, select a healthy, disease-free branch and cut a piece that is around 4 to 6 inches (10 to 15 centimeters) long, ensuring there are several leaf nodes present. Strip the leaves from the lower half of the cutting and dip the cut end in rooting hormone to enhance root development. Plant the treated cutting in a well-drained soil mix, providing consistent moisture and warmth. A high humidity environment can be maintained by covering the cutting with a plastic bag or placing it in a propagator. Roots typically develop within a few weeks, after which the new plants can be gradually acclimatized to ambient conditions before being transplanted to a permanent location.
