Muehlenbeckia astonii

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USDA Hardiness zone: Zn7a 5º to 0ºF

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Muehlenbeckia astonii

Shrubby Tororaro or Wiggy Wig or more easily- Wire shrub from alpine New Zealand is a fun and fascinating shrub for texture and interest. The fine zig-zagging stems hold onto tiny green mitten shaped leaves. These quietly go away in winter revealing  a cinnamon colored tracery of branches. So dense that you are at a loss to stick your hand through the center. Very dense and rounded in habit for full sun and poor to rich well drained soil Light summer water- though completely drought adapted. From a distance it creates a hazy effect rather than the bulk of a shrub and a wonderful texture all around. Perfectly hardy to cold. To 4′ x 4′ in 5 years. Grows much slower with no water and very fast if you give it a lot. Remember less water less pruning. Tiny off-white flowers spangle the stems in spring and can be followed by translucent white starfish shaped drupes.  A Xera favorite shrub.

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