has two subspecies.
• Coprosma macrocarpa subsp. macrocarpa is the only one that attains tree size and its natural range is the Three Kings Islands. It ranges in size from a shrub to a 10m tall tree.
• Coprosma macrocarpa subsp. minor is mostly a shrub up to 4m, found in coastal habitats from North Cape to East Cape and some offshore islands.
C. macrocarpa has large thick green leaves with recurved margins. Large bright red/orange berries (15-25mm x 10-12mm) form on female plants. These are the largest fruits of any species of Coprosma in New Zealand.