Maidenhair Vine

(Muehlenbeckia complexa)

Maidenhair Vine (Muehlenbeckia complexa)

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Estimated Native Range
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Summary

Muehlenbeckia complexa, commonly known as Maidenhair Vine, is an evergreen perennial vine native to coastal, lowland, and montane forests, as well as rocky and scrubby areas in New Zealand and Norfolk Island. It can climb up to 15 feet when supported and spread to a width of 10 feet. The plant’s slender stems can twine over other plants or structures, and if left unsupported, it forms a dense, interlaced mass that can be quite attractive. Near the shore, it often takes on a cushion-like form. The wiry stems have a red-brown bark and are densely branched. Its small, round leaves are dark green and glossy. The flowers, which bloom in summer, are inconspicuous, white to greenish-yellow, and have a sweet scent. They give way to small, fleshy fruits that contain shiny, black, triangular seeds.

Maidenhair Vine is valued for its versatility and can be used as a ground cover, for covering walls or fences, or trained over arbors and pergolas. It is particularly useful for coastal gardens due to its salt tolerance. This vine prefers well-drained soil, tolerates a range of soil types, and requires moderate watering. It thrives in full sun to part shade. In cultivation, it is often appreciated for its resilience and ability to cover unsightly areas quickly. However, it can become invasive outside its native range, so gardeners should be cautious and check local regulations before planting.CC BY-SA 4.0

Plant Description

  • Plant Type: Vine
  • Height: 0.5-15 feet
  • Width: 1-10 feet
  • Growth Rate: Rapid
  • Flower Color: N/A
  • Flowering Season: Summer
  • Leaf Retention: Evergreen

Growth Requirements

  • Sun: Full Sun, Part Shade
  • Water: Medium
  • Drainage: Fast, Medium

Common Uses

Bank Stabilization, Bird Garden, Edible*Disclaimer: Easyscape's listed plant edibility is for informational use. Always verify the safety and proper identification of any plant before consumption., Erosion Control, Fragrant, Groundcover, Low Maintenance, Potted Plant, Rock Garden, Salt Tolerant

Natural Habitat

Native to coastal, lowland, and montane forests, as well as rocky and scrubby areas in New Zealand and Norfolk Island

Other Names

Common Names: Pohuehue , Maidenhair-Vine , Mattressvine , Lacy Wirevine , Wireplant , Weißfrüchtiger Drahstrauch , Stor Slideranka

Scientific Names: Muehlenbeckia complexa , Muehlenbeckia debilis , Muehlenbeckia varians , Muehlenbeckia complexa var. trilobata , Muehlenbeckia microphylla , Polygonum complexum , Polygonum cordatum , Polygonum rotundifolium , Muehlenbeckia complexa var. microphylla , Muehlenbeckia ephedroides subsp. muricatula

GBIF Accepted Name: Muehlenbeckia complexa (A.Cunn.) Meisn.