Wire Netting Bush Corokia × virgata
ABOUT
The plant commonly known as Wire Netting Bush is a unique and intriguing shrub that is easily recognized by its distinct appearance. The Wire Netting Bush features an intricate network of branching that gives it a wiry, interwoven look. The branches are slender and almost appear zigzagged, adding to the plant's striking visual texture. The leaves of the Wire Netting Bush are small, oval to spoon-shaped, and often present in a dark green hue with a leathery texture. They are arranged alternately along the branches, providing a dense foliage that contrasts beautifully with the slim, contorted branches. Seasonal changes bring about a transformation in the leaf color, with hues varying from green to bronze or even a reddish shade, contributing to the plant's ornamental value. Small, star-shaped flowers bloom on the Wire Netting Bush, typically in the spring and summer. These flowers are often yellow, although they may also have a golden tone, adding a subtle splash of color to the predominantly verdant plant. As the flowers wilt, they are replaced by berries, which can range in color from yellow to orange and red, giving a decorative aspect throughout multiple seasons. Overall, the Wire Netting Bush is an eye-catching plant, notable for its wiry framework of branches and dense, dark foliage that creates a captivating visual texture, enhanced by the seasonal color changes of its leaves, the golden-yellow blooms, and the colorful berries that follow.
About this plant
NamesFamily
Argophyllaceae
Synonyms
Wire-netting Bush, Korokio, Twiggy, Corokia
Common names
Corokia x virgata.
ToxicityTo humans
Corokia × virgata, commonly known as wire netting bush, is not listed as toxic to humans. However, as with any plant not intended for human consumption, it is advisable to exercise caution and not ingest any part of this ornamental shrub. If ingested, it could potentially cause discomfort or an adverse reaction, so if any symptoms arise after accidental ingestion, medical advice should be sought.
To pets
Wire netting bush is also not specifically listed as toxic to pets such as dogs and cats. However, individual animals may have sensitivity or allergic reactions to plants that are not commonly toxic. In general, it is best to discourage pets from eating ornamental plants and monitor for any unusual behavior or symptoms if ingestion occurs. If a pet appears to be suffering from poisoning, such as vomiting, diarrhea, drooling, or lethargy after consuming any part of the plant, it is important to contact a veterinarian immediately.
CharacteristicsLife cycle
Perennials
Foliage type
Evergreen
Color of leaves
Green
Flower color
Yellow
Height
3-8 feet (0.9-2.4 meters)
Spread
3-8 feet (0.9-2.4 meters)
Plant type
Shrub
Hardiness zones
7
Native area
New Zealand
Benefits
General Benefits- Ornamental Appeal: Corokia × virgata, commonly known as twiggy or wire netting bush, has a distinctive, branching pattern and silver-gray foliage, which add aesthetic value to gardens and landscapes.
- Drought Tolerance: The plant is known for its ability to withstand periods of drought, making it suitable for xeriscaping and water-efficient gardening.
- Low Maintenance: Once established, the wire netting bush requires minimal care, making it a convenient choice for busy gardeners or those seeking low-maintenance landscaping options.
- Wind Resistance: Its strong, wiry branches and dense growth habit enable Corokia × virgata to act as a windbreak, offering protection to gardens from strong winds.
- Wildlife Attraction: Its small, yellow flowers and subsequent red berries can attract birds and beneficial insects, providing a habitat and food source for wildlife.
- Privacy Screen: Due to its dense growth, it can be used effectively as a hedging plant to create privacy screens and living fences.
- Coastal Suitability: The plant's tolerance to salty winds makes it an excellent choice for coastal gardens and landscapes.
- Seasonal Interest: With evergreen foliage and seasonal changes including flowering and fruiting, it brings year-round interest to a garden space.
Medical PropertiesThis plant is not used for medical purposes.
Air-purifying QualitiesThis plant is not specifically known for air purifying qualities.
Other Uses- Corokia x virgata, commonly known as Wireplant, can be used as a natural fencing or screening material due to its dense, twiggy nature which provides privacy and wind protection in gardens.
- Wireplant is utilized in topiary art; its growth habit allows for shaping into various forms like balls, squares, or even animal shapes.
- The dense branching pattern of Wireplant makes it a suitable habitat for small birds, providing them with nesting sites and protection from predators.
- Its silvery leaves and contrasting dark branches are popular in floral arrangements, where they provide texture and a unique visual interest.
- The plant can serve as an indicator of soil health; if the Wireplant thrives without pests, it often means the soil is well-balanced and healthy.
- In larger landscapes, Wireplant can be used to create intricate garden mazes or labyrinth designs due to its ability to be shaped and maintained at various heights.
- Photographers and filmmakers sometimes use Wireplant as a natural backdrop or to create moody atmospheres due to its intricate branch patterns and unusual form.
- Wireplant branches can be used in crafts, such as making wreaths or other decorative items for the home.
- Gardeners sometimes use dried Wireplant branches as natural stakes to support other plants in the garden.
- Artists may use Wireplant as a subject for botanical illustration or as inspiration for patterns in design due to its distinct visual structure.
Interesting Facts
Feng ShuiThe Wirenetting Bush is not used in Feng Shui practice.
Zodiac Sign CompitabilityThe Wirenetting Bush is not used in astrology practice.
Plant Symbolism- Resilience: Corokia × virgata, commonly known as Wire Netting Bush, is recognized for its ability to survive in tough conditions, which makes it a symbol of resilience and endurance.
- Protection: The Wire Netting Bush has a dense, interwoven branch structure that can be reminiscent of a barrier, symbolizing protection and defense against adversity.
- Adaptability: Given its versatility and ease in various landscapes, the Wire Netting Bush symbolizes adaptability and the ability to thrive in diverse environments.
- Uniqueness: With its distinctive, zigzagging branches and silver foliage, Corokia × virgata is often associated with uniqueness and standing out from the crowd.
WaterThe Wire Netting Bush should be watered moderately, allowing the top inch of soil to dry out before re-watering. During active growth in spring and summer, this typically means watering approximately once a week, using about half a gallon for a medium-sized plant. In the dormant winter months, water sparingly—roughly every other week—just enough to prevent the soil from drying out completely. Avoid overwatering, as it can lead to root rot. Regularly check the soil moisture and adjust the watering schedule based on the plant's needs and environmental conditions.
LightThe Wire Netting Bush thrives in full sun to partial shade. It is best positioned in a spot where it can receive at least 6 hours of direct sunlight daily. However, it can also tolerate light dappled shade, especially in hotter climates to prevent the leaves from scorching. Avoid deep shade, as this can result in leggy growth and reduced foliage density.
TemperatureThe Wire Netting Bush prefers temperate conditions and can survive in temperatures ranging from 20°F to 90°F, though it thrives best in temperatures between 65°F and 75°F. It is not highly frost-tolerant, so it's important to protect the plant from extreme cold or provide insulation if temperatures are expected to drop below the minimum threshold.
PruningPrune the Wire Netting Bush to maintain shape and encourage denser foliage. It is best pruned in late winter or early spring before the onset of new growth. Prune sparingly—no more than one-third of the plant's size—removing any dead or damaged branches and shaping as required. Pruning can also be done after flowering to promote additional blooms in the following season.
CleaningAs needed
SoilWire Netting Bush thrives best in well-draining soil with a slightly acidic to neutral pH between 6.0 and 7.0. An ideal soil mix can be achieved with a blend of peat, perlite, and compost to ensure adequate drainage and nutrient availability.
RepottingWire Netting Bush should typically be repotted every 2 to 3 years as it prefers to be somewhat root-bound. Repotting should be done in spring or early summer to minimize stress on the plant.
Humidity & MistingWire Netting Bush does well in moderate to low humidity levels and can tolerate the drier indoor air common in homes. It does not require high humidity and can adapt to typical room conditions.
Suitable locationsIndoor
Place Wire Netting Bush near a bright window, away from direct sunlight.
Outdoor
Plant Wire Netting Bush in a sunny or part-shade spot, shelter from strong winds.
Hardiness zone
8-10 USDA
Life cycleCorokia × virgata, commonly known as wire netting bush, begins its life cycle as a seed which germinates in well-drained soil with good sunlight exposure. Upon sprouting, it grows into a small seedling with a distinctive silver-grey foliage. As it matures, the shrub develops a dense, interlacing twig structure, which is where it gets its common name. During the growth phase, it requires minimal water and can tolerate drought conditions. In late spring to summer, it produces small, star-shaped yellow flowers that are followed by red or yellow berries, which attract birds and serve as a mechanism for seed dispersal. Finally, the plant reaches maturity with a height of up to 3 meters, and can live for several years with little maintenance, completing its life cycle upon death and decomposition, returning nutrients to the soil.
PropogationPropogation time
Spring-Early Summer
The most popular method of propagating Corokia x virgata, commonly known as Wire Netting Bush, is through semi-hardwood cuttings. This process typically occurs during the late summer months. To propagate, a gardener would take cuttings of about 4 to 6 inches (approximately 10 to 15 cm) long from the current year's growth, ensuring that each cutting has several leaf nodes. The lower leaves are removed, and the cut end is dipped in rooting hormone to encourage root development. Then, the prepared cuttings are inserted into a well-draining potting mix and placed in a warm, sheltered area with indirect light. Keeping the soil consistently moist but not waterlogged is crucial. Roots should begin to form within a few weeks, after which the new plants can eventually be transplanted outdoors.