Coprosma repens Fire Burst

Coprosma x repens 'Fire Burst' is a small bush with evergreen foliage that changes colour and is decorative all year round, but is particularly colourful in winter . Originally from New Zealand, it is hardy, drought-resistant and tolerant to sea spray. Its pretty shiny leaves feature a variegated pattern that goes from orange to pink, red, and then purple, following the rhythm of the seasons. It is a perfect bush to plant in coastal gardens. Elsewhere, this small upright bush with dense foliage can adorn the terrace or balcony throughout the summer and spend the winter protected from frost. 

The genus Coprosma comprises 90 species of evergreen shrubs and small trees, most of which are native to New Zealand. These plants belong to the family Rubiaceae, which also includes scented woodruff, coffee, and gardenia. Recently introduced to the European horticultural market, these shrubs, known as mirror plants, develop extremely shiny foliage where light and colours play wonderfully. From their origins, these tender plants have maintained a preference for dry and warm climates and poor, well-drained soils. Hybrids and cultivars like 'Fire Burst' are less hardy and suffer from temperatures below -3°C. Therefore, their cultivation in the ground is reserved for coastal areas spared from severe frosts.

Coprosma 'Fire Burst', introduced to the market in 1999, is a hybrid bush derived from the species Coprosma repens, among others. It has an upright and dense habit, reaching about 1.50m (4 ft 11 in) in height and 1m (3 ft 4 in) in spread at maturity. Its growth is fast. It develops evergreen foliage composed of small opposite, lanceolate, leathery, and shiny leaves. They have a green centre surrounded by an irregular margin of a different colour. The colour of the margin evolves over the months, showing shades of yellow, orange, pink, cream, magenta red, and purple. Together, they form a kind of sparkling and multicoloured bush that is very impressive. The discreet flowering occurs in late summer in tufts of greenish stamens or stigmas, carried by male or female flowers on separate individuals. When male plants are planted near female plants, small, decorative orange-red fruits are formed on the latter.

Coprosma 'Fire Burst' is a precious-looking bush, highly ornamental when it sits in a pot on the terrace or balcony. This cultivation method is suitable for most regions with heavy frosts. In a coastal garden, it can be associated, in a low hedge, with other plants with green foliage (Lonicera nitida), golden (golden oregano), purple like Berberis, or grey like artemisia. This bush requires some precautions to settle in the ground: it prefers light, poor, and non-chalky soils.