Looking-glass plant [Pacific Night] Coprosma repens Pacific Night = 'Hutpac' (PBR) (m)

Water

Mirror bush should be watered thoroughly, allowing water to reach deep into the soil to encourage deep root growth. Watering should be done when the top inch of soil feels dry to the touch, which will vary depending on environmental conditions but is typically once a week. During the growing season in spring and summer, you may need to water more frequently, especially if the weather is particularly hot or windy. Reduce watering in the fall and further in winter when plant growth slows down. For a mature plant, use about 1/2 to 1 gallon of water per watering session to ensure adequate soil moisture.

Light

The mirror bush thrives best in full sun to partial shade. It needs at least four to six hours of direct sunlight daily, but can also benefit from some dappled afternoon shade in hot climates. The ideal spot for this plant is one where it can enjoy bright morning light and some protection from the intense midday sun, to prevent scorching of the leaves.

Temperature

The mirror bush prefers a mild to warm climate and is best situated in areas where temperatures range between 50°F and 75°F. It can tolerate a brief drop to just above freezing but sustained temperatures below 32°F can be detrimental to the plant. Ideally, it should not be exposed to temperatures above 90°F for extended periods, as extreme heat can stress the plant.

Pruning

Pruning mirror bush is essential for maintaining its dense, compact shape and encouraging vibrant foliage. Prune in the late winter or early spring before new growth starts. Remove any dead or damaged branches, and shape the plant as desired. Light pruning can be done throughout the growing season to keep the plant tidy, but avoid heavy pruning in late fall as this can leave the plant vulnerable to cold damage.

Cleaning

As needed

Soil

Mirror plant (Coprosma repens) thrives in well-drained soil with a slightly acidic to neutral pH of about 5.5 to 7.0. A mix of peat, pine bark, and perlite or sand works well to ensure adequate drainage and aeration. Regularly check soil moisture to maintain slight dampness without waterlogging.

Repotting

Mirror plants like Coprosma repens should be repotted every two to three years to ensure they have enough room to grow and refresh the potting mix. Repot in spring before the growing season starts for optimal results.

Humidity & Misting

Mirror plants prefer moderate to high humidity levels. An ideal range is between 50-75% for healthy growth. In drier environments, increase humidity around the plant by misting or using a humidity tray.

Suitable locations

• Indoor

  Place in bright, indirect light and away from drafts.

• Outdoor

  In partial sun to light shade, sheltered from strong winds.

• Hardiness zone

  9-11 USDA

Life cycle

Coprosma repens 'Pacific Night', commonly known as Mirror Plant or Looking-glass Bush, begins its life cycle as a seed, germinating in warm, moist soil conditions. After sprouting, it enters a juvenile vegetative phase, developing a sturdy root system and glossy, dark purple-black foliage. As the plant matures, it enters an adult vegetative stage, characterized by vigorous growth and dense, bushy appearance, which makes it popular for ornamental use. Flowering is generally inconspicuous in this species, with small, white or greenish flowers appearing that are often overshadowed by the vibrant foliage. If pollination occurs, it can produce non-showy, fleshy fruits that contain seeds, completing the reproductive cycle. The plant can live for several years, with some individuals becoming woody shrubs that can withstand a range of environmental conditions, including coastal exposure and drought.

Propogation

• Propogation time

  Spring-Early Summer

• The most popular method of propagating Coprosma repens 'Pacific Night', commonly referred to as Mirror Plant or Taupata, is through semi-hardwood cuttings. This technique is typically done in the summer when the plant's growth is more robust. To propagate, you would cut a semi-hardwood stem that is about 4 to 6 inches (approximately 10 to 15 centimeters) long. It's important to make the cut right below a leaf node, as this is where the rooting hormone can be applied to encourage root growth. The leaves on the lower half of the cutting should be removed, and then the stem should be inserted into a well-draining soil mix. The cuttings then need to be kept in a moist environment with plenty of indirect light until they root, which may take several weeks.