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Muehlenbeckia astonii

wiggy-wig bush

An erect, deciduous, twiggy shrub to 2m tall, with zig-zagging, wiry branches. It bears small, heart-shaped leaves and in summer produces tiny, inconspicuous flowers. Tolerant of dry and exposed sites

Other common names
shrubby tororaro
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Size
Ultimate height
1.5–2.5 metres
Time to ultimate height
10–20 years
Ultimate spread
1.5–2.5 metres
Growing conditions
Chalk
Loam
Sand
Moisture
Moist but well–drained, Well–drained
pH
Acid, Alkaline, Neutral
Colour & scent
StemFlowerFoliageFruit
Spring Green
Summer Green
Autumn Green
Winter
Position
  • Full sun
  • Partial shade
Aspect

East–facing or South–facing or West–facing

Exposure
Exposed or Sheltered
Drought resistance
Yes
Hardiness
H4
Botanical details
Family
Polygonaceae
Native to GB / Ireland
No
Foliage
Deciduous
Habit
Bushy
Genus

Muehlenbeckia are evergreen or deciduous shrubs or semi-woody climbers, with alternate leaves or sometimes none. Flowers are inconspicuous, whitish or greenish

Name status

Correct

Plant range
New Zealand

How to grow

Cultivation

Grow in moderately fertile, moist but well-drained soil in full sun to partial shade. Plants are drought tolerant once established

Propagation

Propagate by sowing seed at 21°C as soon as ripe; take semi-ripe cuttings with bottom heat in summer

Suggested planting locations and garden types
  • Coastal
  • Low Maintenance
  • Flower borders and beds
  • Hedging and screens
Pruning

See pruning group 11; it is also suitable for topiary

Pests

Generally pest-free

Diseases

Generally disease-free

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