A scrambling coastal climber and groundcover with glossy leaves and large bright yellow buttercup-like flowers through much of the year. A tough, versatile cover for banks, fences and dunes.
At a glance
- Plant type: Climber
- Mature size: 2 m H × 2.5 m W
- Aspect: full sun and part shade or morning sun
- Water: happy on low water
- Frost: tender
- Maintenance: low maintenance
- Origin: Australian native
About Snake Vine
Hibbertia scandens is a fast-growing climber in the Dilleniaceae family, native to New South Wales and Queensland. It reaches around 2 m tall and 2.5 m wide at maturity, with evergreen foliage. Yellow flowers appear for much of the year.
Where to grow Snake Vine
Snake Vine suits warm-temperate, subtropical and tropical climates and grows best in full sun and part shade or morning sun. It is frost tender, so protect it from hard frosts or grow it in a sheltered spot or pot. It also is a genuinely water-wise choice and tolerates salt-laden coastal winds.
Soil & planting
Snake Vine does best in sandy, free-draining and clay soil. Plant into well-prepared ground, firm the soil around the roots and water deeply to settle it in.
Watering & feeding
Snake Vine performs well with relatively little water once established. As an Australian native, feed it only with a low-phosphorus native fertiliser. For the first year, favour occasional deep watering over frequent shallow drinks so roots move into the surrounding soil.
Pruning & care
Prune Snake Vine after flowering to keep it compact and encourage the next flush of blooms. Its ongoing care level is low maintenance.
Using Snake Vine in the garden
Snake Vine earns its place for holding soil on banks and slopes and pots and courtyard containers. It is equally at home in the ground or a large pot on a balcony or courtyard.
Companion planting & design
Build the planting around neighbours suited to the same happy on low water and warm-temperate climate as Snake Vine. Repeating the foliage or flower colour nearby will make the composition feel deliberate. It combines naturally with other Australian natives in a habitat or water-wise garden.
Buying Snake Vine
Plant Sale lists Snake Vine as tube stock, potted plants and advanced specimens. Use the interest form above to check current sizes, pricing and availability before ordering.
