Muehlenbeckia 'Nana', or Little Leaf Wirevine, is a hardy, low-growing groundcover known for its dense mat of wiry, dark brown stems and tiny, round green leaves. It brings unique texture and contrast to garden beds, containers, and pathways. Its spreading, mounding habit and excellent tolerance to foot traffic and pruning make it a favorite choice for designers looking to soften hard edges or cover bare soil between stones or pavers.
Native to New Zealand, this plant thrives in a variety of settings from rock gardens to shady borders and works especially well cascading over walls or pots.
Key Features:
-
Foliage: Tiny, rounded green leaves on dark, wiry stems form a tight, elegant carpet.
-
Growth Habit: Spreading and low-growing; typically 2–4 inches tall and up to 2–3 feet wide.
-
Flowers: Inconspicuous white to cream flowers appear in summer; not grown for blooms.
-
Light Requirements: Full sun to part shade; best color and form in full sun.
-
Soil: Prefers well-drained soil; tolerates a range of soil types, including sandy or rocky soil.
-
Hardiness: USDA zones 6–9.
-
Maintenance: Low. Can be trimmed to maintain shape or rejuvenate growth.
-
Uses: Excellent for groundcover, between stepping stones, in alpine or rock gardens, and as a cascading accent in containers.
-
Drought Tolerance: Moderate once established, though it performs best with regular water in dry periods.
-
Deer Resistance: Generally unbothered by deer.