Muehlenbeckia complexa
maidenhair vine
Forming lots of thin, wiry stems, which are clothed in small dark green leaves, this fast-growing deciduous plant can be grown...
Plant description
Forming lots of thin, wiry stems, which are clothed in small dark green leaves, this fast-growing deciduous plant can be grown as either a shrubby, scrambling groundcover, or if given something to cling to, a twining climber. It is primarily grown for its delicate-looking foliage, which creates a light and airy feel, but it also produces small sprays of tiny greenish-white flowers in midsummer, followed by cream-coloured, inedible fleshy fruits.
Eventual height & spread
Flowering period
- Jan
- Feb
- Mar
- Apr
- May
- Jun
- Jul
- Aug
- Sep
- Oct
- Nov
- Dec
Plant features
Position
Full sun
Rate of growth
Fast-growing
Soil
Moderately fertile, moist, well-drained soil
Hardiness
Borderline hardy (will need protection in winter in colder areas)
How to care for Muehlenbeckia complexa:
To avoid dry conditions, and to ensure good soil contact around the rootball, we advise planting climbers at least 30cm (12in), and preferably 45-60cm (18-24in) away from the base of a wall or fence. An even larger distance should be maintained when planting climbers beside an existing tree or shrub.
Find a spot where it is sheltered from cold, drying winds, and provide support if you would like it to climb. No routine pruning is required unless it outgrows its allotted space, in which case it should be trimmed back immediately after flowering.
