Corokia cotoneaster is a hardy New Zealand native shrub in the Argophyllaceae family, known for its dense, tangled zigzagging branches and small grey-green leaves, typically growing 1–3 metres tall and wide, making it excellent for hedging, screening, and shelter planting; it produces small yellow star-shaped flowers in spring followed by orange-red berries that attract birds, and thrives in full sun to partial shade in well-drained soils, with strong tolerance of wind, drought, frost, and coastal conditions once establishe
Corokia Cotoniaster
$6.50Price
Botanical Name Corokia cotoneaster Raoul Common Name Wire-netting Bush, Korokio, Korokia-tarango Family Argophyllaceae Type Evergreen shrub Origin New Zealand — endemic species; first described by Étienne Raoul in 1846; widest natural distribution of all Corokia species, from coastal cliffs to sub-alpine scrub Mature Height Approximately 1.5–3 m Mature Spread Approximately 1.5–2.5 m Foliage Small, dark green broadly ovate leaves with silver-white undersides; distinctive interlaced zig-zag branching habit Sun Requirements Full sun; tolerates part shade Soil Well-drained soil preferred; tolerates acid, alkaline, or neutral pH Flowering Spring and summer — fragrant, star-shaped yellow flowers followed by red, yellow, or orange berries Wind Tolerance Good — naturally adapted to exposed coastal and rocky conditions Frost Tolerance Moderate — hardy once established; may need protection in severe winters Drought Tolerance Very good — naturally adapted to dry, rocky conditions Growth Rate Slow — takes 10–20 years to reach maturity Maintenance Very low — minimal pruning required; suitable for containers and bonsai Wildlife Value Berries attract birds; fleshy drupes dispersed by frugivory Conservation Status New Zealand endemic species — Not Threatened
