Coprosma repens literally means 'creeping dung-smell', owing to the unique fragrance of its leaves and creeping growth habit. Native to New Zealand, it's a low-growing shrub or small tree, with attractive shiny dark green leaves and orange fruit. It's a popular garden plant here in the UK, especially in coastal areas, due to its ability to withstand salt spray. Although it can grow to an eventual height of 5m, it's more often grown as a small shrub, owing to its need for protection in winter. It thrives in well-drained sandy soils.
Coprosma repens 'Pacific Sunset' has unusual pink-red leaves, which darken to brown towards the edge. It's a fantastic choice for a container display, slowly growing into a rounded mound. A good choice for year-round interest, grow Coprosma repens 'Pacific Sunset' in a sheltered spot in moist but well-drained soil. It's not fully hardy, so provide frost protection or move the container indoors over winter. It doesn't require much pruning, usually only if the plant has grown too big and needs to be reduced in size.
