Wire vine
Also known as
Angel vine, Maidenhair vine, Pohuehue
Keep this plant’s care guide close at hand.
Get the appAbout Wire vine
Muehlenbeckia complexa, commonly called wire vine, is a vigorous, evergreen twiner or groundcover native to New Zealand’s coastal and lowland habitats. It forms dense, tangled mats or climbs by twining, with fine, wiry, dark brown to black stems and small, round to slightly ovate, glossy leaves that create a delicate, lacy texture. In late spring to summer it bears tiny greenish-white flowers that are lightly fragrant, followed by attractive, papery-white, translucent perianths surrounding dark achenes that birds readily disperse. Highly tolerant of wind, salt spray, and pruning, it excels in containers, hanging baskets, as a topiary frame-cloaker, or as a binding groundcover on banks. In mild climates it remains evergreen; in colder areas it may semi-deciduously thin out. Its rapid growth can become rambunctious, so regular trimming is recommended to maintain shape and prevent smothering neighboring plants. It thrives in well-drained soils and adapts to a range of light conditions.
Taxonomy
Properties & Requirements
How to care for Wire vine
Water
Water thoroughly, then allow the top 2–3 cm (about 1 inch) of the mix to dry before watering again. Keep slightly moist in spring and summer; never let the root zone sit in soggy soil. In winter, reduce frequency but do not allow complete dryness for extended periods, especially indoors. Outdoors, established plants are moderately drought-tolerant, but container-grown specimens dry faster and need closer monitoring. Always empty saucers and ensure strong drainage.
Light
Provide bright, indirect light indoors for compact growth; a few hours of gentle morning sun is beneficial. Outdoors, full sun to part shade works best; in hot, inland climates, protect from harsh afternoon sun to prevent leaf scorch and excessive drying. Plants grown in deep shade become open and sparse. Rotate containers periodically for even growth, and acclimate gradually when moving between indoor and outdoor exposures.
Nutrients
Feed lightly during active growth (spring through early autumn). Use a balanced liquid fertilizer at 1/4–1/2 strength every 4–6 weeks, or apply a slow-release, balanced granular fertilizer at the start of spring. Avoid excessive nitrogen, which can cause lanky stems and reduced leaf density. In containers, periodically flush the potting mix with plain water to prevent salt buildup. Withhold or greatly reduce feeding in winter when growth naturally slows.
Temperature
Ideal indoor range is 10–24°C (50–75°F). Outdoors, established plants tolerate light frosts and are generally hardy in USDA Zones 8–10; brief dips to around −7°C (19°F) may be survived in the ground with protection, but containers are more vulnerable. Provide shelter from cold, drying winds in winter and increase watering in hot spells above 29–32°C (85–90°F). Avoid sudden temperature swings and keep roots insulated in exposed sites.
