Bloodwood Coprosma wallii

Coprosma wallii
Coprosma wallii
Coprosma wallii

Key Features

  • Densely leafy, bushy shrub or small tree, 2-5 m tall, with bright orange inner bark on older branches and trunk.
  • Leaves are small, thick, and dark green on the surface.
  • The fleshy fruits are dark red and are constricted between the two seeds, which are spherical, unlike in other species of New Zealand Coprosma.

Distribution and Habitat

  • North and South Islands, from the central North Island to Southland.
  • Typically occurs on alluvial frost flats in association with other divaricate shrubs, or sometimes on fertile hillsides.

Threats

  • Habitat modification and loss.
  • Weed growth preventing regeneration of seedlings.
  • Animal browse of seedlings.

Management Opportunities

  • Survey for new locations.
  • Mark known sites.
  • Protection of habitat.
  • Collect seed, propagate, and translocate or reintroduce to appropriate sites.
  • Possum control by poisoning or trapping.
  • Ensure that forest owners are aware of potential habitats and can recognise the species.

Monitoring Options

  • Check existing populations annually.
  • Report new locations to DOC, NZPCN.

Further Information and Support

  • New Zealand Plant Conservation Network (NZPCN). http://www.nzpcn.org.nz
  • Weed and pest control - Department of Conservation, Regional Councils.
  • References:
    • Dopson et al. (1999). The conservation requirements of New Zealand’s nationally threatened vascular plants. Threatened Species Occasional Publication 13. Department of Conservation, Wellington.
    • Poole & Adams (1994). Trees and shrubs of New Zealand. Maanaki Whenua Press, Lincoln.
    • Wilson & Galloway (1993). Small-leaved shrubs of New Zealand. Manuka Press, Christchurch.