Call us: 0800 843 752Free shipping for orders $150 or over
Gift Vouchers

nz native climbing plants

Nz native climbing plants bring lush beauty and unique character to gardens throughout New Zealand. These special species are perfectly adapted to our environment, providing vibrant greenery, abundant blooms, and vital habitat for native birds. Whether you’re planning to cover a fence, soften a wall, or create a living pergola, nz native climbing plants are an excellent choice for gardeners seeking sustainable and eye-catching solutions. Explore some of New Zealand’s best native climbers, planting tips, and ways to weave their magic into your landscape.

Lush green foliage on Tecomanthe speciosa.

Tecomanthe speciosa

Tecomanthe speciosa, commonly known as the Three Kings Climber, is a NZ native vine grown for its foliage and flowers. It features large, glossy, green leaves that become adorned with large clusters of cream-coloured, tubular flowers in autumn. It will grow to 10 m tall but is often kept in check with trimming. Tecomanthe speciosa makes an excellent addition to a subtropical garden and is well-suited for growing on pillars, pergolas, and arches. With appropriate support, it can also be used for hedging.

Suited to regions: Subtropical
Plant type: Climbers
Height: 10.00 m
Spread: 10.00 m
Flowering time: Autumn
Tolerances: Coastal
Garden uses: Arches, Hedging, Living areas, Parks, Pool areas, Screening, Specimen, Walls
Garden styles: Backyard, Coastal, Formal, Frontyard, Native, Tropical
A Tui in a Metrosideros carminea shrub feeding on the red flowers.

Metrosideros carminea

5 from 1 customers

Metrosideros carminea, commonly known as Climbing Rata or Crimson Rata Vine, is a striking New Zealand native valued for its vivid red flowers and glossy, dark green foliage. This vigorous climber can reach 3–6 metres with support and is ideal for covering fences, trellises, or tree trunks. Flowering from late winter into spring, it attracts native birds and brings bold seasonal colour. It thrives in sheltered, frost-free areas with well-drained soil and regular moisture.

Suited to regions: All regions
Plant type: Shrubs
Height: 2.00 m
Spread: 1.00 m
Flowering time: Spring, Winter
Tolerances: Coastal, Extended dry periods, Hardy
Garden uses: Arches, Walls
Garden styles: Alpine, Backyard, City & Courtyard, Coastal, Frontyard, Modern, Native
pimelea-mimosa--1

Pimelea mimosa

Pimelea mimosa is a mat forming, NZ native, ground covering plant. It has soft, blue-grey leaves which are held on stems that tend to climb over...

From$23.63
Fuchsia procumbens plant growing across the ground with green foliage and yellow-green flowers.

Fuchsia procumbens (Creeping Fuchsia)

Fuchsia procumbens, commonly known as Creeping Fuchsia, is a low-growing, NZ native plant valued for its unique yellow-red flowers and ornamental...

From$18.23
Ficus pumila (Creeping Fig) growing on a stone wall with colourful foliage.

Ficus pumila (Creeping Fig)

Ficus pumila, commonly known as Creeping Fig or Climbing Ficus, is a vigorous, evergreen climber popular in New Zealand for covering walls, fences...

From$18.23
rhaphidophora-decursiva-

Rhaphidophora decursiva

Rhaphidophora decursiva, commonly known as the Dragon Tail Plant or Philodendron Dragon, is a climber that features lush foliage and often grown as...

From$52.58
sorbus-scarlet-king-

Sorbus aucuparia Scarlet King (Rowan Tree NZ)

Sorbus aucuparia Scarlet King is a variety of the commonly known, Mountain Ash, and is a small-sized, deciduous with impressive characteristics...

From$343.89
climbing-rose-albertine-

Rose Albertine

Rose Albertine is a climbing rose featuring very showy, salmon-pink flowers. The highly fragrant blooms emerge in spring and continue until autumn...

From$56.63
A large Monstera deliciosa (Swiss Cheese Plant) in a garden with lush, green leaves.

Monstera deliciosa (Swiss Cheese Plant)

Monstera deliciosa, also known as the Swiss Cheese or Fruit Salad Plant, is a popular indoor tropical plant loved for its striking, holey leaves and...

From$29.63
Kniphofia 'Border Ballet' plants in a cottage garden featuring orange flowers and lush green foliage.

Kniphofia 'Border Ballet' (Hot Poker Plant)

Kniphofia 'Border Ballet' is a variety of the commonly known Red Hot Poker, and is grown for its colourful flowers. Stems rise above the foliage...

From$20.18
bergenia-cordifolia-3

Bergenia cordifolia (Pig Squeak Plant)

Bergenia cordifolia is a hardy evergreen perennial admired for its large glossy leaves and clusters of pink flowers in late winter and spring. This...

From$21.53
Kniphofia Dwarf Scarlet plant with red flowers.

Kniphofia 'Dwarf Scarlet' (Hot Poker Plant)

Kniphofia 'Dwarf Scarlet' is a compact perennial known for its vibrant red flower spikes that rise above neat grassy foliage. This eye catching plant...

From$20.18
A lush Coprosma repens shrub growing in a shaded position.

Coprosma repens (Mirror Plant)

Coprosma repens, also known as Taupata or Mirror Plant, is a robust New Zealand native shrub featuring lush, glossy green foliage. Growing up to 3...

From$20.18
duranta-geisha-girl-

Duranta Geisha Girl (Geisha Girl Plant)

Duranta Geisha Girl is a popular choice known for its evergreen shrub with fresh green leaves and deep, blue flowers. The flowers have a white centre...

From$28.28
White flowers on a Cistus 'Snowmound' plant with green foliage.

Cistus 'Snowmound' (White Rock Rose Plant)

Cistus ‘Snowmound’ is a compact evergreen shrub that produces a breathtaking display of pure white flowers with golden-yellow centres from late...

From$24.23
helichrysum-petiolare--3

Helichrysum petiolare (Licorice Plant)

Helichrysum petiolare, commonly known as the Licorice plant, is a popular, evergreen shrub that is often used as a groundcover. It produces long...

From$24.23
Moss pole for plants.

Moss Pole For Plants (Moss Pole For Plants)

These moss poles for plants are made from Coir Fibre (i.e., the husks of coconuts). They are an eco-friendly option to help plants grow healthier and...

From$6.53
Chlorophytum comosum variegatum plants growing in pots on a shelf.

Chlorophytum comosum variegatum (Spider Plant)

Chlorophytum comosum Variegatum, commonly known as the Spider Plant, is a tender, herbaceous perennial grown for its lush and variegated foliage. It...

From$19.58
Stromanthe triostar plant.

Stromanthe Triostar (Stromanthe Plant)

Stromanthe Triostar is a popular indoor plant owing to its lush and colourful foliage. It features elegant, dark green, pink, and cream-coloured...

From$32.33
Sedum rubrotinctum (Jelly Bean Plant) bright red foliage.

Sedum rubrotinctum (Jelly Bean Plant)

Sedum rubrotinctum, commonly known as Jelly Bean Plant or Pork and Beans Plant, is a compact, low-growing succulent reaching 15–20 cm tall and...

From$20.93
Carex 'Everlime' plants for sale at The Plant Company nursery.

Carex 'Everlime' (Lime Grass Plant)

Carex ‘Everlime’ (Japanese Sedge) is a popular evergreen sedge valued for its graceful arching green foliage edged with bright lime cream margins...

From$26.33
Leonotis leonurus shrub with masses of orange flowers.

Leonotis leonurus (Lions Tail Plant)

Leonotis leonurus, commonly known as the Lions Tail Plant, is a shrub grown for its interesting flowers and foliage. Its unusualness comes from...

From$26.93
aechmea-fasciata-

Aechmea fasciata (Urn Plant)

Aechmea fasciata is a colourful Bromeliad that features thick and leathery leaves that are striped with silver and dark green. They are borne as a...

From$43.13
Chlorophytum 'Golden Glow' plant.

Chlorophytum Golden Glow (Chlorophytum comosum Spider Plant)

Chlorophytum Golden Glow, commonly known as the Spider Plant, is a tender, herbaceous perennial grown for its lush and bright foliage. It features...

From$21.53
sansevieria-hahnii-

Sansevieria Hahnii (Bird's Nest Snake Plant)

Sansevieria Hahnii, commonly known as the Dwarf Snake Plant or Serpent Plant, is a very popular indoor plant. It features upright and fleshy leaves...

From$37.73
chlorophytum-curly--2

Chlorophytum Curly (Curly Spider Plant)

Chlorophytum Curly, commonly known as the Curly Spider Plant or Airplane plant, is a tender, herbaceous perennial grown for its lush, variegated, and...

From$21.53
serissa-snowflake--2

Serissa Snowflake (Snow Rose Plant)

Serissa Snowflake, commonly known as the Snow Rose plant, is an evergreen shrub grown for its lovely flowering and foliage. Showy, white flowers...

From$24.23
3-litre-plant-pots-

3.5 Litre Thermoformed Plant Pots

These lightweight pots are a cost-effective means for growing on plants. They feature a strong and broad rim, have been UV stabilised for NZ...

From$42.50
plant-pots-

2.5 Litre Thermoformed Plant Pots

These lightweight pots are a cost-effective means for growing on plants. They feature a strong and broad rim, have been UV stabilised for NZ...

From$32.50
half-litre-plant-pots-

0.51 Litre Thermoformed Plant Pots

These lightweight pots are a cost-effective means for growing on plants. They feature a strong and broad rim, have been UV stabilised for NZ...

From$20.00
15-litre-plant-pots-

1.5 Litre Thermoformed Plant Pots

These lightweight pots are a cost effective means for growing on plants. They feature a strong and broad rim, have been UV stabilised for NZ...

From$23.75
A strong and studry planting spade.

Ace1 Planting Spade

The Ace 1 planting spade is a must for any gardener. This spade is designed so it can penetrate the ground easily without jarring the wrists in the...

From$158.00
Tecomanthe speciosa

Did you find what you are looking for?

You might be interested in exploring related Latin Names - Aechmea, Bergenia, Carex, Chlorophytum, Cistus, Coprosma, Duranta, Ficus, Fuchsia, Helichrysum, Kniphofia, Leonotis, Metrosideros, Monstera, Pimelea, Rhaphidophora, Rose, Sansevieria, Sedum, Serissa, Sorbus Stromanthe and Tecomanthe, or related Categories - Moss Poles, Plant pots, Spades, Evergreen Climbers, Grasses, Groundcover Plants, Indoor Plants, Perennials, Climbing Roses, Evergreen Shrubs Succulents and Deciduous Trees.

Search nz native climbing plants

Why Choose NZ Native Climbing Plants?

Adding nz native climbing plants to your garden supports the local ecosystem and promotes biodiversity. Native climbers are generally more resilient to NZ conditions, requiring less water and care once established. Their foliage and flowers attract native birds and insects, making your garden a thriving, lively space. These plants are also ideal for creating privacy, greening urban spaces, and adding interest to vertical areas such as walls, fences, and trellises.

Top NZ Native Climbing Plant Species

Tecomanthe speciosa

New Zealand’s most well-known climbing plant, Tecomanthe speciosa, is prized for its dramatic, glossy leaves and clusters of creamy, trumpet-shaped flowers. This rare vine is a spectacular focal point and thrives in sheltered, frost-free areas.

Metrosideros carminea

Also known as New Zealand's crimson rata, Metrosideros carminea creates a stunning display of vibrant red flowers in late summer. Its twining stems are perfect for climbing over trellises or scrambling through trees, adding a burst of colour and attracting tuis and other native birds.

Pimelea mimosa

For those seeking groundcover options with a climbing tendency, Pimelea mimosa adds lush foliage and clusters of delicate white flowers. While not a true climber, it can scramble up and over rocks, adding interest to garden edges and slopes.

Fuchsia procumbens (Creeping Fuchsia)

Another ground-hugging native with creeping potential, Fuchsia procumbens (Creeping Fuchsia) is ideal for underplanting or filling shady corners. While not strictly a climbing plant, its trailing stems provide a lovely transition from horizontal to vertical spaces.

Ficus pumila (Creeping Fig)

While originally from Asia, Ficus pumila (Creeping Fig) is commonly used in New Zealand gardens for its ability to cling and cover walls quickly. It pairs well with native climbers for a lush, layered look.

Design Ideas and Planting Tips

When planning with nz native climbing plants, consider sun exposure, shelter from wind, and available climbing structures. Many natives prefer filtered light under trees, mimicking their natural habitat. Use robust supports for twisty climbers like Tecomanthe speciosa and Metrosideros carminea. Mix groundcovers and climbers, such as Fuchsia procumbens (Creeping Fuchsia) and Ficus pumila (Creeping Fig), for diverse textures.

Enhance Your NZ Garden

Nz native climbing plants enrich every garden, offering beauty, resilience, and ecological benefits. Choose from classic vines, twining shrubs, and creeping groundcovers to create a vibrant, uniquely Kiwi landscape. Explore our range to find the perfect native climber for your outdoor space.


Contact us

Whether you need assistance finding the plant you’re looking for or you simply want to know more about who we are and what we do, we invite you to get in touch with us today. A member of The Plant Company team will get back in touch as soon as possible.

–The Plant Company

Explore Garden Inspiration

Sign up to receive a free $10 Voucher You won’t be bombarded with emails, just titbits of quality information from time to time Sign up
Free shipping on orders over $150!

Join our community of happy customers.

4.9

429 Google reviews