Overview
Coprosma foetidissima, commonly known as stinkwood and rough shield, is a shrub native to New Zealand. This plant belongs to the family Rubiaceae and is known for its unique odour and distinct appearance.
Appearance
Stinkwood is a woody shrub that has an overall height of up to 1.5 meters. It has dark, rough bark with small clusters of leaves attached to twigs that grow in opposite directions. The leaves are glossy and have a green-yellow shade, with a slightly waxy appearance. The flowers are tiny and inconspicuous, usually less than a centimetre in diameter. The fruit produced by stinkwood is a small, bright red berry.
Uses
The Maori, indigenous people of New Zealand, used stinkwood to treat stomach ailments, fever, and certain skin conditions. It was also used to treat injuries and wounds. Additionally, stinkwood has been used as a natural dye by the Maori, with the bark producing a brownish-red colour. Currently, stinkwood is not used commercially, but the plant is still valued for its medicinal properties and horticultural value. In landscaping, it is often planted in coastal and windy areas, providing a hardy and attractive option.
Light requirements
Coprosma foetidissima requires full sun to partial shade for optimal growth. It can tolerate some shade, but too much shade can result in leggy and spindly growth.
Temperature requirements
Coprosma foetidissima is native to New Zealand and can tolerate a wide range of temperatures. It is hardy to USDA zones 8 through 10, which means it can tolerate temperatures as low as 10°F (-12°C). In hotter areas, it may benefit from some afternoon shade to protect it from heat stress.
Soil requirements
Coprosma foetidissima prefers well-draining soil that is rich in organic matter. It is adaptable to a range of soil types, including clay, loam, and sandy soils. It can tolerate slightly acidic to slightly alkaline soils, with a pH range of 5.6 to 7.8. However, it is sensitive to salt and should not be planted in areas with high salt content.
Cultivation
The Coprosma foetidissima, commonly known as stinkwood or titoki, is a hardy evergreen shrub native to New Zealand. It prefers a well-drained soil with good moisture retention and a slightly acidic pH level of 5.5 - 6.5. It can thrive in full sunlight or partial shade.
The plant can be propagated from seeds or cuttings. Seeds should be sown in spring, while cuttings can be taken in the summer. Keep the seeds or cuttings in a warm environment with high humidity until they germinate or root.
Watering Needs
Coprosma foetidissima requires regular watering during the growing season. However, it's important not to overwater the plant, as it can lead to root rot. Ensure the soil is moist but well-drained, and allow the top layer to dry out slightly between waterings.
In winter, the plant needs less water, and the soil should be kept slightly drier. Reduce watering frequency and avoid watering during cold and frosty weather.
Fertilization
The plant requires fertilization once or twice a year. Use a balanced fertilizer in spring to encourage new growth and again in autumn to provide nutrients for the upcoming winter season. Avoid over-fertilizing, as it can lead to excessive growth and weak stems.
Pruning
Coprosma foetidissima can be pruned to maintain a specific height or shape. Prune the plant in late winter or early spring before new growth appears. Remove any dead or damaged branches, as well as any crossing or rubbing branches that can cause wounds and disease. Cut back any long shoots to keep the plant looking neat and tidy.
Propagation of Coprosma foetidissima
Coprosma foetidissima is a hardy plant that can be propagated through various methods.
Seed propagation
The most common method of propagation is through seeds. The plant produces small brown seeds which can be collected after they have ripened. The seeds need to be scarified, which means their surface is gently rubbed to break the hard seed coat. This helps water to enter the seed easily for germination. They can be sowed in a seed tray in autumn or spring. The tray should have well-draining soil and be kept moist but not waterlogged. The seeds usually take a few weeks to germinate.
Softwood cuttings
Propagation through softwood cuttings can also be effective. Softwood cuttings are taken from new growth during early summer. The cuttings are approximately 5-8 cm long and need to be dipped into rooting hormone powder. They can then be planted in a pot with well-draining soil and watered regularly. The cuttings should be kept in a warm and humid environment until roots develop, usually within 3-5 weeks.
Semi-hardwood cuttings
Propagation through semi-hardwood cuttings is similar to softwood cuttings but is done during autumn when the plant is hardening off for winter. The cuttings are slightly thicker and more mature than softwood cuttings. They should also be dipped in rooting hormone before being planted in soil.
Division
Division is a propagation method where a mature plant is divided into several smaller plants. This can be done during early spring or autumn when the plant is dormant. The plant should be lifted with a fork and gently separated into smaller clumps. The clumps can then be planted in soil with good drainage.
Grafting
Grafting is not commonly used for Coprosma foetidissima since the plant is hardy and easy to propagate through other methods. However, it can be an effective way to propagate specific cultivars or varieties. Grafting involves attaching a small section of the desired plant onto a related rootstock. The two pieces are then taped together to allow them to fuse together.
Disease and Pest Management for Coprosma foetidissima
Coprosma foetidissima, commonly known as stinkwood or karamu, is a versatile plant with a wide range of uses in landscaping. However, like any other plant, it is vulnerable to pests and diseases that can significantly impact its growth and overall health. Proper disease and pest management practices can help control and prevent these issues.
Common Diseases
Fungal diseases are the most common diseases that affect Coprosma foetidissima. Here are some of the most prevalent fungal diseases and their management strategies:
Phytophthora Root Rot
Phytophthora root rot is a fungal disease that affects the roots of the plant, causing the plant to wilt, yellow and eventually die. The best management strategies are to avoid overwatering the plant, improve soil drainage and remove affected plants to prevent the spread of the disease.
Sooty Mold
Sooty mold is another fungal disease that affects the leaves of Coprosma foetidissima, causing them to turn black and reduce the plant's photosynthetic activity. Management strategies include applying insecticides to control insects that produce honeydew, which attracts sooty mold, and washing the leaves with soapy water to remove the mold.
Common Pests
Coprosma foetidissima is also susceptible to some common pests that can damage its leaves and stems. Here are some of the most prevalent pests and their management strategies:
Mealybugs
Mealybugs are small, soft-bodied insects that attach themselves to the leaves and stems of the plant, sucking sap from them and causing them to yellow and die. Management strategies include removing heavily infested plants and applying insecticides regularly to control the population.
Scale Insects
Scale insects are another common pest that affects Coprosma foetidissima, causing the leaves to turn yellow and form a sticky substance on the surface. Management strategies include using natural predators like ladybugs and lacewings to control the population and spraying the plants with insecticides to kill the scales.
Caterpillars
Caterpillars can also damage the leaves and stems of Coprosma foetidissima, causing the plant to wilt and die. Management strategies include removing the caterpillars by hand and applying insecticides that are safe for the environment.
In conclusion, there are numerous diseases and pests that can affect the growth and overall health of Coprosma foetidissima. By following regular inspections and a proper pest and disease management plan, you can keep your plant thriving and lush for years to come.
