Muehlenbeckia complexa

Vigorous semi-deciduous New Zealand native vine that grows into a tangled mass and forms a dense mound up to 2m wide and 5m high or more.

Leaves are small rounded and bright green and are produced on long wiry stems creeping and climbing. Flowers are creamy and are followed by black seeds held in a fleshy cup 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.

In its native environment, it plays a key role in sealing human and natural disturbances on the forest edge. It also suppresses the growth of introduced weeds such as blackberry and promotes increased insect diversity. It used in coastal restoration is an important stabilising sand dune plant and it also providing a valuable habitat for birds (nesting and shelter) as well as providing shelter for insects and lizards. It also has edible fruit which geckos and birds love.

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

Native Identification Trail

Named after a botanist named Muehlenbeck and complexa means tangled.