Coprosma rhamnoides is a tightly divaricating, native shrub (1-2m) with very small leaves. It is endemic to the North, South and Stewart Island. It is widespread in Canterbury and Westland in lowland to lower montane-scrubland and forest mostly as an understorey plant. It is less common higher in the montane zone.

Coprosma rhamnoides has stiff interlaced reddish-brown barked branches and branchlets. Branchlets have fine hairs on them The leaves can be variously shaped from narrow to almost round, typically on the same bush but occasionally some plants have all the same shaped leaves. In October the plants develop small pale cream flowers which are dioecious (sexes separate). These flowers are wind pollinated. Drupes appear on the female plant in March-April small (3-4mm) red berries, turning dark red or black as they ripen The N.Z. flora has a large number of shrubs with small tough leaves and wiry interlacing branches – divaricates. Some even have brown or grey new growth, giving a dead-like unattractive appearance. It is suggested that this may be a defensive growth mechanism to deter visits from browsing moa. Coprosma rhamnoides is a good example.