Creeping pōhuehue
Muehlenbeckia axillaris
About Creeping pōhuehue (Muehlenbeckia axillaris)
Creeping pōhuehue (Muehlenbeckia axillaris) is a hardy, mat-forming native groundcover found throughout New Zealand’s open, rocky, and alpine areas. It features wiry, reddish-brown stems and small, rounded leaves that turn bronze in winter. In summer, it produces tiny, greenish flowers followed by black, shiny seeds. This plant is highly valued for its ability to stabilize soil, suppress weeds, and provide habitat for invertebrates. Creeping pōhuehue is popular in gardens and landscaping for its resilience, drought tolerance, and attractive texture, making it ideal for rockeries, green roofs, and erosion control in restoration projects.
Creeping pōhuehue (Muehlenbeckia axillaris) is a mat-forming native New Zealand groundcover with wiry stems and small, round leaves. It is valued for its ability to cover rocky ground and suppress weeds. ground covers
Image credit: Creeping Pohuehue (Muehlenbeckia axillaris) – Photo via Wikipedia
Quick Facts
| Scientific Name | Muehlenbeckia axillaris |
|---|---|
| Height | 2–10 cm (0.8–4 in); mat-forming groundcover |
| Spread | Up to 2 meters (6.5 ft) or more; spreads widely via wiry stems |
| Water Needs | Low to moderate; drought-tolerant once established |
| Light | Full sun to partial shade |
| Frost Tolerance | High; tolerates frost and cold |
| Salt Tolerance | Moderate; tolerates some coastal exposure |
| Growth Rate | Fast; quickly covers open ground |
| Lifespan | Perennial; long-lived in suitable conditions |
Climate Suitability
| City | Suitability |
|---|---|
| Whangārei | Suitable |
| Auckland | Suitable |
| Hamilton | Suitable |
| Tauranga | Suitable |
| Rotorua | Suitable |
| Gisborne | Suitable |
| New Plymouth | Suitable |
| Napier | Suitable |
| Whanganui | Suitable |
| Palmerston North | Suitable |
| Wellington | Suitable |
| Nelson | Suitable |
| Christchurch | Suitable |
| Dunedin | Suitable |
| Invercargill | Suitable |
Muehlenbeckia axillaris is a hardy groundcover found throughout New Zealand, especially in open, rocky areas.
Growing Conditions
This plant grows best in full sun to part shade, with well-drained soil. It is relatively drought-tolerant and can thrive in various soil types, including sandy, loamy, or clay soils.
Uses
Creeping pōhuehue is primarily used as a groundcover for its ability to suppress weeds and cover rocky ground. It is also valued for its ornamental appearance and its ability to stabilize soil.
Seasonal Care
Creeping pōhuehue requires minimal maintenance. Regular watering during dry spells and occasional pruning to maintain its shape are recommended. It is generally pest and disease-resistant.
Pruning
Creeping pōhuehue can be pruned in early spring or late fall. It is best to prune it lightly to encourage bushy growth and prevent it from becoming too sprawling.
Planting Guide
Creeping pōhuehue can be planted in early spring or fall. It is best to plant it in a location where it will have access to sunlight and well-drained soil. It can be propagated by seed or by dividing existing plants.
Propagation
Creeping pōhuehue can be propagated by seed or by dividing existing plants. It is best to plant the seeds in a well-drained soil mix and keep them moist until they germinate. Division is a more reliable method for larger plants.
Cultural History
Creeping pōhuehue has been used by Māori for centuries as a groundcover and for its medicinal properties. It was also known as "pōhuehue" or "tororaro" in the indigenous language.
Pests and Diseases
Creeping pōhuehue is generally resistant to pests and diseases. However, it can be susceptible to fungal infections if grown in poorly drained soil or if it becomes waterlogged.
Bonus Tip
This is a placeholder page for Creeping pōhuehue (Muehlenbeckia axillaris). Full content coming soon.
