Maidenhair vine - Muehlenbeckia complexa (Care, Characteristics, Symbolism, Images)

Maidenhair vine

Also known as: Lacy wire vine, Wire vine, Necklace vine, Mattress wire weed, Wiggy bush

Maidenhair vine (Muehlenbeckia complexa) is a semi-deciduous vine that can grow to 4.5 m if it is given suitable supports on which to climb. However, it is most commonly grown as a houseplant. Maidenhair vine provides interesting ground cover.

Scientific classification

Species

Maidenhair vine (Muehlenbeckia complexa)

Pinks, cacti, and allies

Instantly identify plants with a snap

Snap a photo for instant plant ID, gaining quick insights on disease prevention, treatment, toxicity, care, uses, and symbolism, etc.

Download the App for Free

Perennial

Lifespan

Vine, Herb

Plant Type

Summer, Early fall, Mid fall

Bloom Time

Mid spring, Mid fall

Harvest Time

50 cm to 5 m

Plant Height

6 m to 9 m

Spread

Green

Leaf Color

Winter dormancy

Dormancy

Evergreen

Leaf type

15 - 35 ℃

Ideal Temperature

Images of Maidenhair vine

Distribution of Maidenhair vine

Distribution Map

Maidenhair vine is a versatile plant native to a significant island nation in the southwestern Pacific Ocean. It has spread as an introduced species across regions that include parts of southern Europe, western Europe, as well as areas in South America and Oceania. Its adaptability also allows it to be widely cultivated outside its native range.

Native

Cultivated

Invasive

Introduced

No species reported

Discover plant distribution and habitat

Gain insights into where plants thrive and how they adapt, helping you identify, cultivate, and protect them with essential information on habitats, distribution maps, and climate trends.

Download the App for Free

Habitat

Coastal, lowland and lower montane forests, open and rocky places

Hemisphere Trend Curve

Northern

Sorthern

Culture

Garden Use

A resistant, versatile, climbing shrub, maidenhair vine can have various uses in the garden and tolerate almost any position. It can be used as a twinning climber, ground cover, or for topiary or wall side borders within courtyard, city, or cottage gardens. Also, it is a good cover for banks and slopes. Because of its high salt tolerance, maidenhair vine can thrive in coastal gardens, even on the beach itself.

Symbolism

Communicating mistrust and solitude

Get quick plant knowledge with a snap

Snap a photo for instant plant identification and learn about its name, symbolism, interesting facts, uses, and more.

Download the App for Free

Quickly Identify Maidenhair vine

Vigorous growth up to 30 feet (9 meters) tall or wide.

Dense network of tangled stems with minuscule light-green leaves.

Produces small creamy-green flowers in late spring to early summer.

Resilient plant capable of swift recovery from pruning.

Ideal for crafting into various shapes due to growth habit.

Identify plants with a snap

Instantly identify plants with AI: Snap a photo, and get accurate results within seconds.

Download the App for Free

Care Guide for Maidenhair vine

Every week

Water

Partial sun

Sunlight

15 - 35 ℃

Ideal Temperature

Potting Mix

Soil Type

Water: Native to temperate regions, maidenhair vine thrives in consistently moist soil and cannot tolerate prolonged dryness. It requires weekly watering and is generally grown outdoors to take advantage of natural rainfall and seasonal temperature changes.

Fertilize: For maidenhair vine, use a balanced 10-10-10 NPK fertilizer at half-strength bi-weekly in spring and summer, and monthly in winter. Water maidenhair vine before fertilizing to avoid root burn, and adjust feeding frequency as the plant grows, flushing the soil to prevent salt build-up.

Pruning: Maidenhair vine is a vigorous, twining perennial with heart-shaped leaves. Prune in early to late spring to control growth and shape, removing dead or tangles. Regular pruning promotes dense foliage; avoid heavy pruning late in the season to maintain cold hardiness.

Propagation: Maidenhair vine propagates easily through herbaceous cuttings in Spring and Summer. Success is marked by healthy roots and new growth. To aid propagation, maintain moisture in cuttings and shield them from direct sunlight.

Repotting: Maidenhair vine should be repotted every 2-3 years in spring using a slightly larger pot to promote growth. Use well-draining soil and place in bright, indirect light. Water sparingly and minimize handling to facilitate recovery.

Get tips and tricks for your plants.

Keep your plants happy and healthy with our guide to watering, lighting, feeding and more.

Download the App for Free

Images of Maidenhair vine

Distribution of Maidenhair vine

Culture

Quickly Identify Maidenhair vine

Care Guide for Maidenhair vine

PEOPLE ALSO ASK

Common Pests & Diseases