Muehlenbeckia astonii aka Shrubby Tororaro
Taxonomy ID: 5009
Muehlenbeckia astonii, also known as shrubby tororaro, is an endemic New Zealand shrub in the family Polygonaceae. It is an erect, deciduous, twiggy shrub that can reach a height of up to 2 meters. Its distinctive feature is its tangle of wiry interlocking branches, adorned with small heart-shaped leaves. During summer, it produces tiny, inconspicuous flowers. This rare and threatened plant is commonly cultivated worldwide, but it is extremely rare in its natural habitat.
In cultivation, shrubby tororaro is a super rare houseplant that requires regular watering for optimal growth. It thrives best in long-lasting, direct light and should be positioned within 1 foot of a window. It prefers soil that is extremely well-draining and can benefit from the addition of a gentle, organic fertilizer during the peak growing season. Despite its rarity, it is tolerant of dry and exposed sites.
Common names
Shrubby Tororaro, Shrub Pohuehue, Wiggywig BushMore information about Shrubby Tororaro
What is the region of origin of Shrubby Tororaro
Shrubby Tororaro’s native range is New Zealand.
What are the water needs for Shrubby Tororaro
Shrubby Tororaro should be watered regularly, allowing the soil to dry out between waterings.
What is the right soil for Shrubby Tororaro
The Shrubby Tororaro is delicate when it comes to soil that is too damp, therefore, it is crucial to select a potting soil that has efficient drainage and doesn't hold an excessive amount of moisture. An ideal soil should consist of a substantial amount of perlite or vermiculite for proper drainage and some organic matter for nutrition. Mixing a few handfuls of perlite with commercially available cactus soil should produce the desired result.
What is the sunlight requirement for Shrubby Tororaro
Shrubby Tororaro requires abundant, bright and direct light. Placing it less than one foot from a window is the best way to make sure the plant receives enough light to survive and thrive. Depending on your region, however, the current weather can affect the placement of the plant in your home. For example, in some areas the sun may be too direct and intense, so it's best to place it farther away from the window. You may also need to adjust your placement according to the season as the sunlight can change intensity over the course of the year. If you live in a region with significant temperature fluctuations, such as a desert, you may need to place the plant a bit farther away from the window to avoid extreme heat or cold. With some care and attention, your Shrubby Tororaro will be sure to bring you many years of beauty and enjoyment.
Is Shrubby Tororaro toxic to humans/pets?
Ploi does not possess verified information regarding the toxicity of this particular plant. In the event that you, a member of your family, or a pet ingests plant material with an unclear toxicity level, it is highly recommended to seek the advice of a medical professional.
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