Wire Vine
Muehlenbechia complexa

GATHERING:
Ideally, to be useful for basketweaving, the stems should be cut as long as possible. As it is a fast growing creeper, a hard prune will require large sections to be removed in one go, this is the best option for the basketmaker. 
STORAGE: 
Bundled as best you can and stored in a dry place, these stems will last for a long time. The leaves dry soon after cuttingand fall off.
TO USE:
​A long soak, preferrably overnight will ensure that the stems become flexible enough to use. Stems can be used either individually or in bundles for random weaving or for stitching. 

DESCRIPTION:
Wire vine or Creeping wire vine is a dense climber with dark reddish black stems and small round dark leaves. Its popular as a hedge plant and is also suitable for small scale topiary.

Muelenbechia is much loved by basketmakers for the colour of its stems, as they remain dark. 

Examples of work made with Muehlenbeckia