Aphanopetalum resinosum is the answer to many difficult positions in the garden, from dark shady dry corners of the garden to ugly fences or buildings which need to be greened up, Gum Vine may be the solution. This robust native vine has bright green shiny leaves and reddish stems and when it is in flower is quite a show stopper.

Aphanopetalum resinosum, commonly known as Gum Vine, is a stem twiner, it will use what it can for support or if there is none available it will ramble along the ground, creating an interesting low growing groundcover and smothering weeds as it goes.

I have recommended this plant for many of my own garden designs, one in particular has been planted under a Norfolk Island Palm and then started to twine around the trunk and then along the chicken wire that is nailed to a fence. A great alternative to exotic climbers like star jasmine.

It is naturally found in rain forests in QLD and NSW, growing in dappled light and damp conditions. However, the pictures here are in full sun in Royal Botanic Gardens Cranbourne, which also has a risk of frost.

The leaves of the Aphanopetalum resinosum are large and glossy, coming to a point.

In spring and summer the plant produces bunches of creamy calyx, star shaped, flowers. A long lasting display is created by the masses of sepals. “Aphanopetalum” means “invisible petals”, as the plant is very attractive when in flower it is surprising to learn that it is actually the sepals and not petals that catch our attention and provide a long lasting display. For this reason Aphanopetalum is actually closely related to Cerapetalum species.

This plant can also be gown in a hanging basket or inside. If growing in a basket it will respond well to a heavy prune in early spring before flowering or late summer after flowering. A liquid fertilizer might also be needed to give the plant a boost and retain its glossy leaves.

If growing in more of an open sunny spot make sure the soil is mulched to keep moist. As it is a rainforest plant it likes richer more composted soils and access to regular moisture.

If planting near young or smaller plants you will need to keep an eye on the Gum Vine so it does not smother the other plants.

Female Leafcutter Bees use this plant to cut out circles from the soft leaves and use these to make a cradle for their eggs in the nest.

Locally we can find Gum Vine throughout the Illawarra region, beachside or on the coastal plain in Mangerton and Gwynneville. It is found in rainforests or on margins, particularly near streams, although can also be in drier areas.

This plant can be propagated easily from semi-hard cuttings. It may also be propagated from seed if sown when fresh. If the plant has something to climb on Aphanopetalum resinosum will create a dense privacy screen or green back drop in a taight space, is there anything this native climber can’t do?