Mirror Plant Coprosma repens 'Pina Colada' (PBR) (v)
ABOUT
The Coprosma repens 'Pina Colada' (PBR) (v), commonly known as mirror plant, is a striking evergreen shrub notable for its glossy, variegated foliage. The leaves of 'Pina Colada' are particularly attractive, featuring a mix of green and creamy yellow colors. They present an eye-catching pattern, where the bright yellow accents the leaf margins and is interspersed with the lush green center. This creates a lovely contrast that radiates a joyful vibe in any garden setting. The leaves are oval-shaped and smooth to the touch, with a waxy sheen that reflects light beautifully, giving rise to the name "mirror plant." The plant's overall vibrant and variegated appearance makes it a favored choice among gardeners looking to add a splash of continuous color to landscapes, as the glossy leaves maintain their vibrant hues throughout the seasons. Apart from its beautiful leaves, 'Pina Colada' can produce inconspicuous flowers and berries, but it is primarily grown and cherished for its decorative foliage which remains the focal point of this plant's appeal. This variety of mirror plant is suitable for a range of uses, including as a specimen plant in containers, for mass planting, or as a part of mixed borders, where its reflective leaves can complement surrounding plants and add depth to the garden design. Its visual appeal, coupled with its evergreen nature, makes it a versatile and attractive choice for gardens and landscapes seeking year-round interest.
About this plant
NamesFamily
Rubiaceae.
Synonyms
Mirror Plant, Looking-glass Plant, Taupata, Shiny Leaf, Tree Bedstraw, New Zealand Laurel.
Common names
Coprosma repens 'Pina Colada' (PBR) (v).
ToxicityTo humans
Coprosma repens, commonly known as mirror bush, is not typically listed as a toxic plant to humans. However, it's always possible for individuals to have sensitivities or allergic reactions to plants that are not widely recognized as poisonous. If a plant is not well studied for its toxicity, it is generally advisable to avoid ingestion and to keep it out of reach of children, who might be more sensitive to potential toxins. If any part of the mirror bush is ingested and symptoms develop, medical advice should be sought.
To pets
Mirror bush is not commonly known to be toxic to pets. However, as with any plant, individual animals may have different sensitivities, and it is always best to prevent pets from ingesting plants not intended for consumption. If you suspect your pet has ingested mirror bush and is showing signs of illness, it is advisable to contact your veterinarian. Symptoms of plant poisoning in pets can vary but may include vomiting, diarrhea, drooling, or more severe signs like difficulty breathing or changes in behavior.
CharacteristicsLife cycle
Perennials
Foliage type
Evergreen
Color of leaves
Varies
Height
3-5 feet (0.91-1.52 meters)
Spread
3-5 feet (0.91-1.52 meters)
Plant type
Shrub
Hardiness zones
9
Native area
New Zealand
Benefits
General Benefits- Attractive foliage: The Coprosma repens 'Pina Colada' is known for its striking foliage with glossy leaves that have a unique variegation pattern, adding visual interest to garden spaces.
- Drought tolerant: Once established, this plant can tolerate periods of dryness without the need for frequent watering, making it suitable for water-wise gardens.
- Low maintenance: It requires minimal pruning and upkeep, which is ideal for gardeners who prefer less work-intensive plants.
- Coastal resilience: Being naturally adapted to coastal environments, it can withstand salty winds and sandy soils, great for seaside landscapes.
- Year-round color: This plant offers year-round color and texture, maintaining its appearance across the seasons, which is excellent for consistent garden aesthetics.
- Compact size: It grows to a manageable size that makes it an excellent choice for small gardens or spaces where plant size needs to be controlled.
- Versatile use: It can be used in various landscaping applications, including as hedging, in mixed borders, or as a container plant, offering flexibility in garden design.
Medical PropertiesThis plant is not used for medical purposes.
Air-purifying QualitiesThis plant is not specifically known for air purifying qualities.
Other Uses- Mirror Lake Mirror Plant can be used as a bonsai specimen due to its interesting structure and the ability to prune it into miniature tree forms.
- With its dense foliage, it can be shaped into a living sculpture or topiary in a garden setting, providing an artistic element to landscaping.
- The thick, shiny leaves of this plant can be used in floral arrangements as a lasting and glossy green backdrop to flowers.
- As an alternative to traditional fencing, Mirror Plant hedges can provide a natural and attractive privacy screen.
- The bright berries of the plant can be used in decorative crafts, although they should not be eaten as they are not edible.
- Due to its salt tolerance, it can be planted in coastal areas to assist in stabilizing sand dunes and reducing erosion.
- The reflectivity of the leaves can be utilized in a garden to add an element of light play, especially in shadier areas where light is minimal.
- In urban environments, it can be used to cover unattractive walls or buildings, providing a green facade.
- The plant can be used to create intricate garden mazes in large landscape projects because of its ability to be trimmed to precise shapes and its dense growth.
- For photography or film sets, the Mirror Plant can be a part of creating a lush green environment or serving as a backdrop that requires minimal maintenance.
Interesting Facts
Feng ShuiThe Mirror Plant is not used in Feng Shui practice.
Zodiac Sign CompitabilityThe Mirror Plant is not used in astrology practice.
Plant Symbolism- Adaptability and Resilience: Coprosma repens, commonly known as Mirror Plant, often exemplifies adaptability due to its ability to thrive in coastal environments where other plants may struggle. This symbolic meaning might inspire individuals to adapt to different circumstances in life.
- Reflection and Clarity: The symbolic meaning of reflection and clarity comes from the plant's glossy leaves that can appear nearly reflective, much like a mirror. This symbolism can encourage self-examination and clear thinking.
- Growth and Vitality: The Mirror Plant has vigorous growth habits, which symbolizes vitality. This can remind individuals of the importance of personal growth and the continuous pursuit of vitality in life.
WaterMirror bush should be watered thoroughly, allowing the soil to dry out slightly between waterings. Generally, this means watering about once a week, but frequency can depend on climate and environmental conditions. Indoor plants should be watered with approximately 16 to 24 ounces of water, ensuring not to flood the container. For outdoor plants, a slow, deep watering with 1 to 2 gallons every one to two weeks is sufficient to reach the root zone without causing standing water, which can lead to root rot.
LightMirror bush thrives best in a location that receives full sun to partial shade. Ideally, the plant should be placed in a spot where it can enjoy bright indirect light for most of the day. Direct sunlight is also beneficial, but protection from the intense midday sun can prevent leaf scorching.
TemperatureMirror bush prefers a temperature range between 50 to 70 degrees Fahrenheit but can tolerate conditions down to 30 degrees Fahrenheit and as high as 85 degrees Fahrenheit. The ideal temperature for optimal growth is within the range of 60 to 65 degrees Fahrenheit, avoiding sudden temperature drops or frost conditions which can damage the plant.
PruningPruning the mirror bush is important to maintain its shape and promote denser foliage. Prune lightly in the spring before the new growth begins, removing any dead or damaged branches, and to shape the plant. Pruning can be done occasionally throughout the year, as needed, to remove any unruly growth.
CleaningAs needed
SoilMirror plant thrives in well-draining, fertile soil with a pH between 5.5 to 6.5. A mix of two parts peat, one part perlite, and one part compost is ideal for providing the right balance of moisture retention and drainage.
RepottingMirror plants should be repotted every two to three years or when roots become pot-bound.
Humidity & MistingMirror plant prefers moderate to high humidity, ideally between 50-70%.
Suitable locationsIndoor
Place in bright, indirect light with some humidity.
Outdoor
Shelter from strong winds in partial shade to full sun.
Hardiness zone
9-11 USDA
Life cycleCoprosma repens 'Pina Colada', commonly known as Mirror Plant, begins its life as a seed that germinates in moist, well-drained soil with ample warmth and light. The seedling stage is characterized by the emergence of the plant's first leaves as it develops a root system and starts photosynthesis. As it enters the vegetative growth stage, the plant experiences rapid growth of foliage, producing its distinctive shiny leaves and branches, and becomes well-established. The Mirror Plant may flower, although the flowers are small and inconspicuous, but it's during this maturity stage that it may also produce small berries if pollination occurs. As a perennial, Coprosma repens 'Pina Colada' does not have a distinct flowering and seed production cycle; rather, it continues to grow and can be propagated through cuttings. Over time, without proper conditions or as the plant ages, it will enter a decline phase where growth slows and the plant may eventually die, completing its life cycle.
PropogationPropogation time
Spring-Early Summer
The Mirror Plant 'Pina Colada' is typically propagated by stem cuttings, a method which is most successful during the warmer months of the year, particularly spring and early summer. To propagate by cuttings, take a 4 to 6-inch (10 to 15 cm) stem segment from a healthy parent plant, ensuring there are at least a couple of leaf nodes present. Strip the lower leaves and dip the cut end into rooting hormone to encourage root growth. Then, plant the cutting in a pot filled with a well-draining soil mix, water it lightly, and cover it with a plastic bag to maintain high humidity around the cutting. Place the pot in a warm area with indirect light and keep the soil consistently moist but not waterlogged. Roots typically form within several weeks, after which the plastic can be removed and the plant can continue to grow until it's ready for transplanting.
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