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Copperbrush

Shrub type: Coniferous (Grows along the ground or other low surfaces.)

This small shrub grows up to 1 foot (30.5 cm) tall and lives for around 10 years. It is very susceptible to disease and insect infestation.

It has numerous wide, straight stems covered in silky, copper-coloured bark, and the wood inside is yellow.

The branches are tall, rigid and upright with thousands of twigs that and are covered with very large amounts of small, thin, leaves with ripped edges. The leaves themselves are caramel and turquoise, frail and crispy.

In late summer it produces bunches of medium-sized, violet blossoms with perforated petals. They detach easily and have a delicate scent that smells like coffee.

In late autumn tiny long, straight fruits ripen. The crispy beige skin is delicate and sweet, and the very soft bronze flesh is salty and very juicy. The brown seed is small and is in the centre of the fruit.

It is suitable for creating tough, hard-wearing textiles
The stems are covered in large spikes.
It spreads easily and often blanket large areas.