Sand Coprosma (Coprosma acerosa)

Family: Rubiaceae | Edibility: Edible (2/5)

Coprosma acerosa is an evergreen Shrub growing to 0.5 m (1ft 8in) by 0.6 m (2ft). See above for USDA hardiness. It is hardy to UK zone 8. It is in leaf all year, in flower from September to October. The species is dioecious (individual flowers are either male or female, but only one sex is to be found on any one plant so both male and female plants must be grown if seed is required). and is pollinated by Wind. The plant is not self-fertile.

Edible Parts & Harvest Seasons

Edible Parts: Fruit

Harvest Seasons: Early Summer, Fall, Late Summer, Winter

Flavor & Culinary Uses

Sweet and juicy, but with little flavour. — Sweet and juicy, but with little flavour.; The fruit is usually pale blue and up to 8mm long x 6mm wide.; The roasted seed is an excellent coffee substitute.

Habitat & North American Range

Coastal sand dunes and elevations up to 1200 metres, on North, South and Chatham Islands. (Zone 7, Zone 8, Zone 9, Zone 10)