Care of the climbing plant Muehlenbeckia hastulata or Wirevine |
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The genus Muehlenbeckia, family Polygonaceae, comprises 20 species of herbaceous plants native to South America, Australia, New Zealand and Papua New Guinea. Some species are: Muehlenbeckia hastulata, Muehlenbeckia complexa, Muehlenbeckia astonii, Muehlenbeckia florulenta. Common name: Wirevine. Scientific synonym: Rumex hastulatus. This species is native to Chile. They are evergreen shrubby vines with a covering or climbing habit that reach 5 meters (16.4 feet) in length. They have reddish stems and fleshy triangular, pointed leaves. They produce small greenish flowers that have no ornamental interest. Wirevine is used to cover slopes, walls, gates and low maintenance garden areas. It's ideal for north facing locations. Muehlenbeckia hastulata is an easy-to-grow plant that grows in full sun and semi-shade exposures. It resists frosts down to -20 ºC (-4 ºF) and be covered by snow for several months. Rumex hastulatus can grow in any type of soil, from sandy to clay. Wirevine resists drought for 2-3 weeks but welcome regular watering while waiting for the substrate to be dry. Muehlenbeckia hastulata does not need fertilizers. Prune in late winter to keep it compact and to control growth. Wirevine is a plant resistant to pests and diseases. Muehlenbeckia hastulata is propagated from seeds sown in spring or by division of the suckers that appear at the base of the plant. |
Images of the climbing plant Muehlenbeckia hastulata or Wirevine |
 Muehlenbeckia hastulata  Muehlenbeckia hastulata |