Species

Coprosma repensMirror Bush

5 other cultivars

shrub

Tequila Sunrise Mirror Plant

Coprosma repens 'Tequila Sunrise'

The Story

Plant Bio

Coprosma repens is a dense, evergreen shrub native to coastal New Zealand, highly adapted to maritime winds and salt spray. The species features glossy, leathery leaves and produces tiny, inconspicuous flowers that hold no ornamental value.

'Tequila Sunrise' is distinguished by its highly reflective, variegated foliage that emerges lime green with gold margins before transitioning to orange and deep burgundy in cold weather. This cultivar maintains a compact, rounded habit that fills out tightly to the ground, reaching three to five feet in height and width.

Uses & Benefits:

Provides year-round color interest with glossy, color-shifting foliage that intensifies to deep orange and red in winter.

Tolerates high wind, coastal salt spray, and moderate drought once established, making it ideal for difficult seaside exposures.

Offers dense evergreen structure and shelter for small garden wildlife while resisting deer and rabbit browsing.

SpeciesCoprosma repensMirror Bush

Essentials

At a Glance

Plant Type

Shrub

Height

48"

Width

48"

Light

Full Sun, Partial Sun

Zones

9, 10

Water

Moderate

Humidity

Moderate

Lifespan

10-20 years

Native To

New Zealand

Toxicity

Non-toxic

Bloom period

Spring – Summer

In flower about 6 months of the year

Planting

How to Grow

Select a planting site in full sun with sandy, loamy, or average soil that drains rapidly.
Dig a hole twice as wide as the root ball and of equal depth, ensuring the crown sits level with the surrounding soil.
Backfill the hole, firm the soil gently to eliminate air pockets, and water deeply to settle the roots.
Maintain regular soil moisture during the first growing season to establish a deep root system.

Pro Tip

Plant in full sun to maximize the intensity of the winter foliage color, and ensure the soil profile drains sharply to prevent root rot.

Keep It Thriving

Care Guide

Do

Prune annually in spring to maintain a dense, tidy shape.
Apply a balanced, slow-release fertilizer in early spring before new growth begins.
Ensure the soil drains completely between waterings to prevent root decay.

Don't

Do not prune harshly into old, bare wood, as it lacks dormant buds to resprout.
Do not plant in heavy, compacted clay or boggy areas where water pools.
Do not shade the plant, as low light levels reduce the intensity of the variegated foliage colors.

Seasonal Care Calendar

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

Watch Out For

Pests & Diseases

Common Pests

Common Diseases

In the Garden

Landscape Uses & Companions

Landscape Uses

Coastal gardensLow hedgesContainer specimensMass plantings

Companion Plants

Abelia grandiflora Pittosporum tenuifolium

Multiply

Propagation Methods

Good to Know

Common Questions

Tequila Sunrise Mirror Plant questions

What zones can Tequila Sunrise Mirror Plant grow in?

Tequila Sunrise 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 Tequila Sunrise Mirror Plant deer resistant?

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

When does Tequila Sunrise Mirror Plant bloom?

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

Does Tequila Sunrise Mirror Plant need full sun?

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

Is Tequila Sunrise Mirror Plant drought tolerant?

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