About New Zealand Native Climbing Plants
New Zealand native climbers, or lianes, are an important part of forest and shrubland ecosystems. They use other plants for support, allowing them to reach sunlight and create complex habitats for birds and insects. Notable species include Muehlenbeckia complexa (Pohuehue), Parsonsia heterophylla (Kaihua), and Metrosideros perforata (White Rātā). These plants are valued in gardens for their ability to cover fences, trellises, and walls, and are often used in ecological restoration to increase biodiversity and provide food and shelter for native fauna.
Explore Our Native Climbing Plants
Northern Rātā
Metrosideros robusta
Starting life as an epiphyte, this climber eventually becomes a massive forest tree with red flowers.
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Pōhuehue
Muehlenbeckia complexa
A versatile small-leaved wire vine perfect for covering walls or as a groundcover.
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Puawhananga
Clematis paniculata
New Zealand's native passion vine with fascinating flowers and orange seed pods.
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Supplejack
Ripogonum scandens
A vigorous forest vine forming dense tangles with distinctive red berries.
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Kōhia
Passiflora tetrandra
New Zealand's native passion vine with fascinating flowers and orange seed pods.
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Kaihua
Parsonsia heterophylla
A woody climber with variable leaves and sweet-scented yellowish flowers.
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White Rātā
Metrosideros perforata
Climbing vine with white flowers, found in forests throughout New Zealand.
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Growing Native Climbers in Your Garden
Tips for Success with Native Climbers
Native climbers can add vertical interest and habitat value to your garden. Most prefer well-draining soil and some form of support structure. Consider the ultimate size and vigor of your chosen species when planning - some like Supplejack can become quite substantial over time.
Many native climbers attract birds with their flowers or berries, making them excellent choices for wildlife-friendly gardens.
Learn more about vigorous native climbers like Bush lawyer (Rubus cissoides) for edible berries and habitat value.