Serrulata Mirror-Bush (Coprosma serrulata)

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

Coprosma serrulata is an evergreen Shrub growing to 0.6 m (2ft). 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, but little flavour. — Fruit - raw or cooked.; Sweet, but little flavour.; The orange-red fruits are about 8mm in diameter.; The roasted seed is an excellent coffee substitute.

Habitat & North American Range

Montane to lower sub-alpine forest, shrubland and grassland, from latitude 41° south and southwards on South Island. (Zone 7, Zone 8, Zone 9, Zone 10)