- Coprosma robusta
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Coprosma robusta Scientific classification Kingdom: Plantae Division: Magnoliophyta Class: Magnoliopsida Order: Gentianales Family: Rubiaceae Subfamily: Rubioideae Tribe: Anthospermeae Genus: Coprosma Species: C. robusta Binomial name Coprosma robusta Karamu is the Māori name given to the tree Coprosma robusta and Coprosma lucida, two of the 45 Coprosma species found in New Zealand.
Coprosmas are identified by the domatia (tiny holes at the junction of the veins on the underside of the leaf), their stipules, small flowers and colourful berries (Dawson, J. and Lucas, R., 2000).
Coprosma robusta is found in lowland forest or shrub throughout New Zealand and almost to the south of the South Island. It has dark green leaves approximately 5-13cm long and 3-4 cm wide. The tree itself is either a shrub or small tree that can grow up to 6m tall. The stipules have a single, shiny black gland at the tips. When berries are present, they are orange, 8-9mm long and can take up to a year to ripen (Dawson, J. and Lucas, R., 2000).
References
Dawson, J. & Lucas, R. Nature Guide to the New Zealand Forest. p96-98. Random House New Zealand, Glenfield, Auckland.
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