Maori plant (Corokia)
The Maori plant, also known as Corokia or the Zigzag plant, originates from New Zealand. This trendy and unique plant has an industrial and modern appearance, and the phrase “less is more” fits it perfectly. The shapes of its branches make the Corokia a true work of art. Small leaves emerge from these branches, bringing a lot of atmosphere to any space with their various colors.
The Corokia, grown by Vreugdenhil Bulbs & Plants, is available in silver and green varieties.
The Corokia Green has fresh green, narrow, rounded leaves with a leathery feel. This Maori plant grows in a bushy form, and with the right amount of love and attention, it will produce star-shaped yellow flowers. The Corokia Green is suitable for both indoor and outdoor settings.
The Corokia Silver has light gray branches covered with soft silver hairs. A tall, slender shape characterizes this member of the Maori plant family. The Corokia Silver is suitable for both indoor and outdoor use, and even in winter, it retains its beautiful silver color.
The third member of the Maori plant family is the Sophora Prostrata ‘Little Baby’. This plant is recognized for its zigzagging bushy shape and small leaves. In summer, it produces fragrant bell-shaped yellow flowers. This plant thrives in a pot and can survive winter temperatures above freezing.
Did you know…
This beautiful plant is named after the indigenous people of New Zealand? The Maori make up a significant portion of the country’s total population (14%) and still honor ancient traditions.
Corokia care tips
Our grower, Vreugdenhil Bulbs & Plants, offers the best tips for enjoying your Maori plant for as long as possible! In brief:
- It’s important to keep the soil slightly moist. Remove any excess water from the pot.
- The Maori can tolerate wind and withstand winter temperatures down to -5 degrees, making it suitable for outdoor use.
- As a houseplant, the Corokia will also thrive!
- To maintain the Zigzag plant’s shape, it can be pruned, and any stray branches can be trimmed.
- The best location for the Maori is in a bright or semi-shaded spot. However, it will also do well in darker areas.
Would you like to know more about Corokia care? Below, we’ll explain in detail.
Maori Care
Watering the Maori (Corokia)
The Maori plant (Corokia) likes a drink of water once or twice a week. Ensure the soil remains slightly moist, but avoid leaving the roots in water. The Corokia thus requires good drainage in its pot. In winter, the Zigzag plant prefers a slightly drier soil.
The best spot for the Maori plant
The Maori plant prefers a place in bright light or semi-shade. It will also do well in a darker spot. Don’t worry about drafts; the Maori can tolerate them well. Next to a door, window, or breezy corner in the garden, it will feel perfectly at home.
How to repot your Zigzag plant?
Every two years, you can give the Corokia a fresh layer of potting soil. This is also a good time to move it to a larger pot. If your Corokia is in the garden, keep in mind that it may need extra protection during severe frost (below -5 degrees). You could bring the plant indoors or wrap it in frost-protective wrap.
Fertilizing the Corokia
In spring and summer, you can feed the Corokia once a month during watering.
Is the Corokia plant toxic?
The Corokia plant is non-toxic to humans and animals.
How to prune your Maori plant?
To maintain the Zigzag plant’s shape, you can prune it. Trim any protruding branches as needed.
Does the Corokia bloom?
Both Corokia Green and Sophora Prostrata will produce small, fragrant flowers with the right amount of love and attention.
Is the Corokia air-purifying?
Yes, the Corokia is air-purifying.
Diseases and pests affecting the Corokia
Like other plants, the Corokia can suffer from diseases and pests, such as spider mites, aphids, or mold.
Spider Mites
Spider mites are identified by webs on the leaves and yellow spots on the foliage. These small creatures suck the sap from the leaves, causing discoloration and weakening the plant. If you discover spider mites, trim away the affected leaves and spray the Corokia with a mixture of water and green soap.
Aphids
Aphids also suck the sap from the leaves, weakening the plant. The leaves will discolor, and growth will be stunted. You can combat aphids by regularly spraying the plant with a mixture of water and dish soap.
Mold
If the Corokia receives too much water or is in a very humid environment, it may develop mold diseases and root rot. Make sure that any excess water drains away, so the roots aren’t continuously submerged in water.
Physical characteristics of the Corokia Plant
Is your Maori plant not performing as expected? It can happen! Every Corokia plant has its needs. The most common physical characteristics are listed below.
Discolored leaves
The leaves can turn yellow, brown, or black, indicating too much or too little water. Exposure to direct sunlight can also cause this.
Leaf loss
The leaves of the Corokia may fall off due to too much or too little water. Pay close attention to the watering schedule. Environmental stress, such as moving the plant to a different location, can also cause this.
Spots on leaves
Spots on the Corokia’s leaves are often signs of diseases and pests, which manifest as yellow, brown, or black spots. You can find solutions for this in the diseases and pests section.
