Botanical name:

Muehlenbeckia astonii

Common name(s):

Mingimingi, Shrubby tororaro, Wiggywig

About:

A rare and intriguing brownish shrub characterised by its twisted, tangled branches that zig-zag in an eye-catching manner, this plant boasts small heart-shaped leaves along with charming white fruit that features a distinctive black seed perched on top. This resilient plant is not only extremely hardy but also remarkably easy to cultivate, making it an excellent choice for both novice and experienced gardeners alike. Its unique interlacing growth habit enhances its appeal, rendering it an attractive option for topiary designs or as a decorative hedge. Additionally, it has gained popularity in landscaping as it provides delightful contrast against other plants. The foliage is suitable for cut arrangements, and its sweet, fleshy white fruits are not only edible but also serve to attract a variety of birds and lizards, bringing life and vibrancy to any garden setting.

Natural habitat:

Coastal to lowland. This species is associated with “grey” scrub communities, largely confined to drier lowland parts of eastern New Zealand. It is found on moderate to high fertility soils.

Growing environment:

Sun, Drought, Salt, Wetland, Wind & Coastal tolerant.

Endemic distribution:

New Zealand’s North and South Islands. In the North Island known from Eastern Wairarapa south to Cape Palliser and just west of Sinclair Head. In the South Island in Marlborough formerly present on the Wairau Bar and Wither Hills, now known only from Clifford Bay, the lower Awatere Catchment to Cape Campbell and Kekerengu. Also in North Canterbury, on Banks Peninsula near Lake Forsyth and on Kaitorete Spit.

Height: 2m

Flowering: 

August - January (- May) with a green or white coloured flower/s

Fruiting:

October – June with a white coloured fruit.

Uses:

Bird food/ attractant, Bee food, Hedging, Shelter belts & Riparian plantings.

How to grow:

Easy from fresh seed and hardwood cuttings, which should be taken in winter. An excellent shrub for hedges and wind breaks. Once established very drought tolerant. The deciduous habit is unusual, and the bare, interlacing, wiry dark stems in winter are as attractive as the bright green foliage seen in summer.

** Seed germinates without pre treatment. Sow seed direct & keep moist until germination is complete.