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

Evergreen climbing plants for fences are a fantastic solution for adding vibrant, year-round greenery and privacy to your New Zealand garden. Whether you're shielding your outdoor space from neighbours, softening the look of a plain fence, or looking for a lush backdrop to showcase your favourite flowers, evergreen climbers deliver lasting beauty. With their rapid growth and dense foliage, these versatile plants require minimal fuss once established, making them ideal for both experienced gardeners and beginners alike.

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 Choose Evergreen Climbers for Fences?

Opting for evergreen climbing plants for fences means enjoying all-season interest, even during the colder months when many other garden plants lose their leaves. They not only provide privacy but also help to create microclimates, reduce wind, and even deter graffiti on street-facing fences. Climbing evergreens can cover unsightly boundary lines and fence posts, transforming them into attractive living walls filled with texture, colour, and sometimes even flowers.

Top Evergreen Climbing Plants for New Zealand Fences

Ficus pumila (Creeping Fig)

Ficus pumila (Creeping Fig) is an outstanding evergreen choice for covering fences. Loved for its small, densely-packed leaves and vigorous climbing habit, it clings easily to surfaces and quickly establishes a lush green carpet. Perfect for both wooden and concrete fences, this climber provides a softening effect on harsh lines and delivers year-round greenery.

Metrosideros carminea

Another striking option is Metrosideros carminea, known for its glossy, evergreen foliage and brilliant red flowers in late winter to early spring. This native New Zealand climber adds a brilliant splash of colour to your fences while offering the practical benefits of wind screening and wildlife attraction.

Pyrostegia venusta

For vibrant autumn and winter blooms, consider Pyrostegia venusta. Also known as flame vine, it boasts masses of orange flowers cascading down evergreen vines. This climber is ideal for fencing that needs a dramatic splash of colour combined with a dense, all-year privacy screen.

Hydrangea seemanii

If your fence is partially shaded, Hydrangea seemanii is a great evergreen climber to consider. With its leathery leaves and stunning summer blooms, this hydrangea will happily cloak your fence in foliage while brightening darker corners of your garden.

Bougainvillea 'Purple Patch'

For a bold statement, look to Bougainvillea 'Purple Patch'. Its long-lasting, vivid purple bracts and resilient, evergreen foliage make it an excellent candidate for fences that receive plenty of sun. Bougainvillea also stands up well to dry conditions, making it a smart choice for those seeking drought-tolerant options.

Tips for Growing Evergreen Climbers on Fences

To get the best results from your evergreen climbing plants for fences, start with healthy plants and enrich the soil with compost before planting. Install lattice, wires, or trellis to give your climbers a boost in the initial stages. Regular pruning will help to control growth and encourage bushier, denser coverage, ensuring your fence is fully concealed year-round. With a little care, these evergreen climbers will reward you with lush privacy, seasonal colour, and an effortless, green backdrop 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.