Name: The Plant Company
Address: 284 Meeanee Road, Meeanee, Napier, 4112, New Zealand
Telephone: 0800 843 752
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climbing plants to hide fence

Are you looking for effective and beautiful climbing plants to hide fence lines in your garden? Whether your goal is to create privacy, add a splash of vibrant colour, or simply soften an unattractive boundary, there’s a climbing plant suited for every New Zealand garden. Climbing plants are a clever, natural solution for transforming bare or unappealing fences into lush, living walls. With the right choice, you can enjoy year-round interest, attract native wildlife, and boost your property’s appeal.

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

Pyrostegia venusta

Pyrostegia venusta, commonly known as Flame Vine or Golden Shower Vine, is an amazing climber that produces masses of bright and unusual flowers. It carries mid green leaves which literally disappear during winter and spring behind a shroud of bright orange flowers. The showy flowers are showy and literally transform the plant. It is fast growing and will reach 10 m if it has something to climb and left untrimmed. Pyrostegia venusta is commonly included in tropical or cottage gardens, planted for winter colour, used to cover a fence or other support structure, or allowed to cascade over a wall.

Buy Pyrostegia venusta

From $32.33

Suited to regions: Subtropical, Temperate

Plant type: Climbers

Height: 5.00 m

Spread: 5.00 m

Flowering time: Spring, Winter

Tolerances: Coastal, Hardy

Garden uses: Arches, Living areas, Pool areas, Screening

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

Why Choose Climbing Plants for Fences?

Climbing plants to hide fence spaces offer a quick and sustainable way to mask unsightly boundaries. Unlike hard landscaping, climbers grow and evolve, bringing with them seasonal colour, fragrance, and texture. They’re perfect for residential gardens, lifestyle blocks, or urban courtyards where space is tight but impact is vital. Many climbing plants are low-maintenance, and their dense foliage lends itself to privacy, security, and even noise reduction.

Best Climbing Plants for Privacy and Fence Cover

When choosing climbing plants to hide fence features, consider your fence height, sun exposure, and the overall look you want. Here are some top options for New Zealand gardeners:

Vigorous Climbers for Fast Cover

If you want rapid coverage, Pyrostegia venusta is an outstanding choice. Its masses of bright orange flowers provide a bold statement along sunny fences, and it’s a proven performer in warmer climates. For shaded spots, Ficus pumila (Creeping Fig) offers dense, evergreen foliage that clings naturally to surfaces, quickly turning fences into verdant backdrops.

Colourful Blooms for Year-Round Interest

Nothing says “garden glamour” like climbing roses. Rosa 'Iceberg' Climbing is a classic option, with its pure white flowers that repeat bloom and thrive in most New Zealand locations. Another favourite is Bougainvillea 'Purple Patch' — this vigorous climber bursts with purple bracts that illuminate sunny fences, adding Mediterranean flair and attracting pollinators.

Native Choices for Unique Appeal

For those wanting to support local wildlife and enjoy a uniquely Kiwi look, Metrosideros carminea (the crimson rata vine) delivers stunning red flowers and glossy foliage. It’s ideal for creating natural privacy screens while sheltering birds and bees.

How to Plant and Train Climbers

Proper planting and training are crucial when using climbing plants to hide fence lines. Ensure your climber is matched to the sun, wind, and moisture conditions of your site. Install support structures (like trellis or wires) where needed, and guide young growth to evenly cover the fence. Regular pruning will encourage thick foliage and keep growth tidy.

Transform Your Fence with Living Beauty

With so many climbing plants to hide fence eyesores, you can easily turn any boundary into a stunning focal point. Explore options like Pyrostegia venusta, Metrosideros carminea, Ficus pumila (Creeping Fig), Bougainvillea 'Purple Patch', and Rosa 'Iceberg' Climbing to find the perfect fit for your fence and garden. With the right climber, your fence won’t just disappear – it will become a living feature that brings beauty and privacy for years to come.

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.