This compact shrub stands out with its glossy, dark purple leaves edged in vibrant pink, offering year-round interest. Known as the Mirror, or Looking Glass, Plant for its reflective foliage, it is ideal for small gardens, containers, or patios.
Tolerant of coastal conditions and exposed sites, it thrives in well-drained soil with full sun or partial shade in a southerly, sheltered aspect.
Coprosma repens Eclipse produces small white flowers from summer to autumn, though it is for its vibrant foliage that the plant is renowned for.
While frost hardy in milder areas, it may need frost protection in colder regions, making it well-suited to container planting for easy relocation during winter. Disease-resistant and low-maintenance, it’s a reliable choice for colourful, evergreen structure in warmer spots.
How to care for Coprosma repens Eclipse ('Aldawn'):
Plant in a well-drained, sheltered, sunny spot protected from cold winds. Use a loam based potting compost if planting in pots, with plenty of drainage to avoid waterlogging.
In spring, lightly trim any branches that spoil the symmetry of the plant. Afterwards apply a generous 5-7cm (2-3in) mulch of well-rotted leaf mould or composted pine needles around the base of the plant.
In colder regions, protect from hard frosts, or keep it in a pot and move it to a sheltered spot when the temperatures dip.