Muehlenbeckia axillaris

A divaricating wiry mat-forming shrub that grows 1-2m wide and up to 10cm tall.

Wiry red-brown stems carry small dark green leaves. Small creamy white flowers are produced prolifically in summer followed on the female plants by opaque white fruit which geckos and birds love.

Prefers full sun to partial shade in open areas. It is extremely tolerant of wind and drought so is suitable in coastal conditions but not wet.

Always choose healthy well grown plants and plant after autumn rains as the soil is moist and warm and allows shrubs to become established before winter. This enables them to withstand dry periods during the following summer. Young plants require thorough watering during dry periods over the first two or three years mulching helps to conserve moisture and suppress weeds. Planting success is often improved on clay soils by adding extra topsoil and raising beds. Incorporate coarse sand, bark, compost or other organic material to improve soil structure.

Before planting ensure the root ball is saturated and remove the planter bag or pot with minimal root disturbance. Trim any broken roots and plant at the same level as in the container. Dig a hole twice the diameter of the root ball and firm in and water once planted. Make sure plants are watered well until established if planting in a drier period. Plant with some general slow release fertiliser and then every spring apply an organic based fertiliser such as blood and bone at a handful per square meter as new growth begins.

Mulching annually helps suppress weeds and conserve moisture. Organic materials such as sawdust and bark contribute to soil structure as they decompose but keep mulching material away from the trunk. They benefit from a dressing (50g/m2) of general purpose fertiliser in early spring as new growth begins this will encourage more vigorous healthy growth. Sprinkle evenly and work into the top 2 to 3cm of the soil taking care not to damage surface roots.

Pruning will hardly be necessary other than to keep the growth where you want it.

Provides habitat for native copper butterflies. Birds and geckos love the fruit.

No pest and disease issues. Avoiding planting in wet situations as it does not tolerate excess water well.

New Zealand Cultivars

This species is naturally found in rocky areas and riverbeds in the South Island and lower North Island.