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. Dig in plenty of compost before planting, water in well, and mulch to keep roots cool.
Watering & feeding
Snake Vine is happy on low water, so once its roots are down it needs little supplementary water. As an Australian native, feed it only with a low-phosphorus native fertiliser. In its first year, water deeply once or twice a week to settle the roots in, then taper off as it establishes.
Pruning & care
Prune Snake Vine after flowering to keep it compact and encourage the next flush of blooms. Overall it 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
For a cohesive, low-care bed, pair Snake Vine with other plants that enjoy the same happy on low water and warm-temperate climate. Group three or five together for impact rather than dotting single plants through the garden. 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. Stock isn't live yet — register your interest using the panel above and we'll email you the moment it is available.