Name: The Plant Company
Address: 284 Meeanee Road, Meeanee, Napier, 4112, New Zealand
Telephone: 0800 843 752
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climbing plants for trellis nz

Looking for the best climbing plants for trellis NZ gardens? Whether you want to create a lush privacy screen, brighten up an outdoor wall, or introduce a living feature to your deck or patio, climbing plants can transform your space with vibrant foliage and stunning blooms. In New Zealand’s mild climate, a wide variety of climbers thrive—offering options for sun, shade, exposed fences, or sheltered courtyards. With a well-chosen trellis and a little care, you’ll enjoy a living tapestry that’s both practical and beautiful.

Metrosideros carminea

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.

Buy Metrosideros carminea

From $25.58

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

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, and trellises. It features small, heart-shaped juvenile leaves that mature into larger, leathery foliage. Fast-growing and self-clinging, it can create dense, green coverage in sun or partial shade. Preferring well-drained soil and regular moisture, it thrives in sheltered sites and requires pruning to manage growth. Ideal for decorative and functional vertical greening.

Buy Ficus pumila (Creeping Fig)

From $18.23

Suited to regions: All regions

Plant type: Climbers

Height: 4.00 m

Spread: 4.00 m

Tolerances: Coastal, Extended dry periods, Hardy, Wind

Garden uses: Arches, Living areas, Screening, Walls

Garden styles: Backyard, City & Courtyard, Coastal, Frontyard, Japanese, Modern

Why Grow Climbing Plants on a Trellis in NZ?

Climbing plants are a fantastic way to maximise vertical space in New Zealand gardens, large or small. Trellises provide the essential support that climbing species need to flourish. Aside from their decorative appeal, many of these plants protect against wind, increase privacy, shade outdoor living spaces, and attract native birds and pollinators.

Top Climbing Plants for Trellis NZ

When selecting climbing plants for your trellis in NZ, consider sun exposure, growth habit, and flowering season. Here are some exceptional choices perfectly suited for local conditions:

Metrosideros carminea

A much-loved native climber, Metrosideros carminea, or ‘Crimson Rata’, is a brilliant choice for trellises. With its glossy green leaves and vivid red flowers from late winter into spring, it’s both eye-catching and valuable for supporting native birdlife.

Ficus pumila (Creeping Fig)

For year-round greenery that quickly covers bare fences and trellises, Ficus pumila (Creeping Fig) is a reliable favourite. This self-clinging evergreen produces small, lush leaves, creating a living backdrop that softens hard surfaces and thrives with minimal maintenance.

Mandevilla 'Red Riding Hood'

Those seeking vibrant colour should consider Mandevilla 'Red Riding Hood'. Its trumpet-shaped red flowers appear from spring to autumn, making it a standout for sunny, sheltered trellises. This climber loves the heat and rewards with spectacular, long-lasting blooms.

Bougainvillea 'Pedro'

For dramatic style, Bougainvillea 'Pedro' is hard to rival. With masses of purple-pink flowers throughout the warmer months, this drought-tolerant climber is perfect for trellises in exposed, sun-drenched spots. It’s ideal for adding Mediterranean flair to NZ gardens.

Abutilon megapotamicum

If you prefer something unique, try Abutilon megapotamicum. Sometimes called the ‘Trailing Abutilon’ or ‘Chinese Lantern’, it features delicate, pendulous flowers that bring a soft, whimsical touch to any trellis setting.

Tips for Success With Trellised Climbers

Ensure your trellis is sturdy and securely anchored to withstand wind and the weight of mature plants.
Train new growth early, using garden ties to encourage your climber to cover the desired area.
Feed and water regularly, especially when plants are actively growing and flowering.
Prune after flowering to maintain shape and encourage healthy new shoots.

Climbing plants for trellis NZ wide give you endless opportunities to express your garden style—from native to tropical, classic to contemporary. Start your green wall adventure and enjoy a living feature that's both easy-care and endlessly rewarding.

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.