Species

Coprosma repensMirror Bush

5 other cultivars

shrub

Mirror Plant

Coprosma repens 'Pacific Sunset'

The Story

Plant Bio

Coprosma repens is a coastal evergreen shrub native to New Zealand, recognized for its exceptionally glossy, leathery leaves that tolerate harsh salt spray and wind. The species produces inconspicuous, wind-pollinated greenish flowers in spring that hold little ornamental or wildlife value.

'Pacific Sunset' is a compact, upright-mounding cultivar distinguished by wave-shaped leaves featuring a vivid red center and a deep burgundy to chocolate-brown margin. The foliage colors deepen and intensify significantly during cooler fall and winter temperatures.

Uses & Benefits:

Provides year-round structural interest with highly glossy, color-changing foliage that intensifies in winter.

Highly resistant to salt spray and coastal winds, making it an excellent windbreak or hedge for seaside gardens.

Offers dense, evergreen structure that can provide minor nesting cover for small birds.

SpeciesCoprosma repensMirror Bush

Essentials

At a Glance

Plant Type

Shrub

Height

60"

Width

40"

Light

Full Sun, Partial Sun

Zones

9, 10

Water

Low to moderate

Humidity

Moderate

Lifespan

Long-lived

Native To

New Zealand

Toxicity

Non-toxic

Bloom period

Spring

In flower about 3 months of the year

Planting

How to Grow

Select a planting site in full sun to partial shade, noting that full sun exposure maximizes the intensity of the red and burgundy leaf coloration.
Amend the planting area with organic matter to ensure rapid drainage, especially if planting in heavier clay soils.
Dig a hole twice as wide as the root ball and of equal depth, then set the plant so the crown sits level with the surrounding soil.
Water thoroughly at planting and maintain regular moisture during the first growing season, allowing the soil to dry slightly between waterings once established.

Pro Tip

Plant in highly permeable soil to prevent root rot, and avoid shearing into old, leafless wood which fails to regenerate.

Keep It Thriving

Care Guide

Do

Grow in full sun to achieve the most vivid foliage coloration.
Ensure the soil drains rapidly to prevent root rot.
Prune lightly in late winter to maintain a compact, bushy shape.

Don't

Do not allow the roots to sit in waterlogged or chronically wet soil.
Avoid heavy shearing into old, leafless interior wood.
Do not plant in deep shade, which causes the foliage colors to fade.

Seasonal Care Calendar

Task	Jan	Feb	Mar	Apr	May	Jun	Jul	Aug	Sep	Oct	Nov	Dec
Fertilize
Pest Check
Propagate
Prune

Watch Out For

Pests & Diseases

Common Pests

Common Diseases

In the Garden

Landscape Uses & Companions

Landscape Uses

Coastal GardensFoliage AccentContainer SpecimenLow HedgeMass Planting

Companion Plants

Dodonaea viscosa Myrica californica Phormium tenax

Multiply

Propagation Methods

Good to Know

Common Questions

Mirror Plant questions

What zones can Mirror Plant grow in?

Mirror Plant is hardy in USDA Zones 9–10. Inside that range it survives winter in the ground; outside it, grow it as an annual or a container plant you protect.

Is Mirror Plant deer resistant?

Yes — Mirror Plant is rated deer-resistant. Deer typically pass it over, though extreme hunger can override any plant's defenses.

When does Mirror Plant bloom?

Mirror Plant typically blooms in spring through spring. Exact timing shifts a week or two with your zone — Sow's bloom calendar maps it to your garden.

Does Mirror Plant need full sun?

Mirror Plant does best in full sun to part shade. In hot climates, afternoon shade keeps blooms fresher longer.

Is Mirror Plant drought tolerant?

Yes — once established (usually after the first full season), Mirror Plant handles dry spells with minimal watering. Water deeply its first year to build the root system that makes that possible.