Pumila Mirror-Bush (Coprosma pumila)

Family: Rubiaceae | Edibility: Edible (1/5)

Coprosma pumila is an evergreen Shrub growing to 0.1 m (0ft 4in). See above for USDA hardiness. It is hardy to UK zone 7. 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, but with little flavour. — Fruit - raw or cooked.; Sweet, but with little flavour.; The orange-red fleshy fruit is about 7mm in diameter, though forms with fruits up to 13mm have been seen.; The roasted seed is an excellent coffee substitute.

Habitat & North American Range

Higher montane to sub-alpine grassland, North, South and Stewart Islands. (Zone 6, Zone 7, Zone 8, Zone 9)