Lucida Mirror-Bush (Coprosma lucida)

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

Coprosma lucida is an evergreen Shrub growing to 5 m (16ft 5in). See above for USDA hardiness. It is hardy to UK zone 8. It is in leaf all year. 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

Flavor & Culinary Uses

Sweet and juicy, but with little flavour. — Sweet and juicy, but with little flavour.; Dry weight is 3.3% protein, 8.1% sugar and 24.6% lipids.; The orange fruit is about 12mm in diameter.; The roasted seed is an excellent coffee substitute.

Habitat & North American Range

Forest and shrubby areas, especially marginal, to the montane zone. Found throughout New Zealand. (Zone 7, Zone 8, Zone 9, Zone 10)