Muehlenbeckia complexa – Creeping Wire Vine (Pōhuehue)

What are the landscaping uses for Muehlenbeckia complexa?

Muehlenbeckia complexa is a good choice for a landscaping project. It is commonly mass planted either as a ground cover or on a bank, allowed to grow on a trellis to become a hedge, or used for topiary. This is one of the hardiest ground cover plants as it thrives with neglect! Muehlenbeckia complexa is favoured by landscape designers for its ground covering ability, hardy nature, and versatility. It really can be grown almost anywhere!

Muehlenbeckia complexa for sale in NZ

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How to care for Muehlenbeckia complexa

Caring for Muehlenbeckia complexa is generally quite straightforward as it is a very hardy plant. It thrives in full sun to partial shade and prefers a well-drained soil. It can, however, tolerate a range of soil types, including sandy and clay soils provided they drain well. It also tolerates frost as well as coastal and alpine environments. Regular watering is important, especially during the first year to establish a strong root system. After that the plants are largely drought-tolerant. Pruning is mainly for shaping and controlling its spread. You can trim it to maintain a desired shape or to keep it from becoming too unruly at any time of the year. Mulching around the base of the plant can help retain moisture and suppress weeds while it establishes. It will benefit from native plant fertiliser in spring. It is generally resistant to pests and diseases.

Why is Muehlenbeckia complexa called Pohuehue?

The name "pōhuehue" is a Māori term, and it's important to understand that it's not exclusively tied to Muehlenbeckia complexa. Rather, it is a general term used for several species of climbing or trailing plants, including some within the Muehlenbeckia genus. These plants have been a part of the New Zealand landscape for a long time, and the Māori language reflects that familiarity.

How to grow a Muehlenbeckia complexa hedge?

Muehlenbeckia complexa makes an interesting hedge but it requires a support structure to achieve this. The plants are generally spaced 75 cm apart against a trellis or fence. The plants will wind their way up and through the trellis. They will grow to whatever height the trellis allows. The hedge is generally trimmed every six months to keep it contained and tidy.

Can Muehlenbeckia complexa be grown as a houseplant?

Muehlenbeckia complexa is often grown as a either a trailing or climbing houseplant. The plants will flow over the sides of a pot and trail to the ground if not trimmed. Alternatively, a climbing frame is inserted into the pot and it will happily grow up the structure. In either case, trimming is required to contain the plant and they should be positioned with plenty of natural light.

Muehlenbeckia complexa indoor care

Muehlenbeckia complexa is often grown indoors as either a trailing or climbing houseplant. The critical elements for their care involve just a few key elements. The first is a free-draining potting mix. The next element is to position the plant where it can receive plenty of natural light. A spindly or sick looking plant is generally related to insufficient light. The plants prefer drier soils so only water them when the top 3-4 cm of soil is dry. Any leaf drop is likely related to underwatering whereas browning leaves is a sign of over-watering. Be sure to use only indoor plant fertiliser every six months and feel free to trim the plant as required.

How to use Muehlenbeckia complexa for topiary

Muehlenbeckia complexa requires a structure for it to be trained onto. The plants are usually planted within the structure such as a wire frame and then threaded through it. Threading is better than simply waiting for it to fill the spaces so it achieves coverage faster. The key is also light trimming to keep it contained to the bounds of the structure but without being able to the structure itself.