Karamū

Karamū also known as Coprosma Robusta, a fast‑growing native shrub that provides excellent cover and food for wildlife.

Appearance:

• Glossy green leaves
• Bright orange‑red berries that attract birds
• Upright shrub form

Growth:

• Leaves 5–10 cm long, 2–4 cm wide
• Grows 2–4 m tall
• Establishes quickly in disturbed soils

Uses:

Commonly used in riparian planting and for stabilising slopes.

For regeneration and restoration projects, Karamū is best planted in dry areas outside of seasonal flood zones.  It's a great native species to plant on erodible hillslopes and in the transition zone between hillslopes and floodplains.

Cultural & Historical Notes:

Karamū has been used in traditional rongoā (medicine) and is associated with regeneration and growth in Māori tradition.