In container garden design they always use terms such as “thrillers, spillers, and fillers” in regard to plant attributes and function. “Thrillers,” are large and colorful plants in the middle of the container, while “fillers” have rounded and interesting forms occupying the mid-area. “Spillers” – one of which we will talk about today – are plants that gracefully cascade over the edge tying the whole design together. The “spiller” I want to highlight here is called Muehlenbeckia axillaris ‘Nana’ also known as the creeping wire vine. Available at most garden centers, this plant is made for large containers, hanging baskets and/or rock gardens.
Featured in the large planting containers – designed and installed by UF/IFAS Charlotte County Master Gardener Volunteers – just outside the Murdock Administration Building in Port Charlotte, creeping wire vine is a natural “spiller” growing no more than three to four inches tall, and up to three-foot wide. ‘Nana’ is a dwarf cultivar of the species with small green leaves that are alternatively arranged on brownish-red wiry stems. You might also notice very small almost inconspicuous flowers at times, but they do not overly enhance the ornamental appeal of this plant.
Best in full sun to part-shade, creeping wire vine is normally grown in large containers and hanging baskets. As mentioned above – because of its trailing habit – it is a natural feature where it can freely surge over the rigid boundaries of pot rims – in effect, “spilling out”. The extra-small leaves of Muehlenbeckia axillaris ‘Nana’ nicely complement other features in the container garden knitting everything together into an eye-appealing horticultural treat. Creeping wire vines can also be grown by themselves in hanging baskets which they will quickly fill and spill over creating a stunning display. Not reported to be invasive in Florida, keep creeping wire vines in bounds to prevent escape – just in case- if you use it in the landscape. Functional as a low groundcover in rock gardens, creeping wire vine really fits the bill as its fine leafy texture and predilection to sprawl fit well into small open bare areas. The literature also indicated that creeping wire vine can tolerate foot traffic to a degree which is unusual for most groundcovers. You will find it fairly fast growing, somewhat salt-tolerant and drought-tolerant once established
Creeping wire vine is readily available at most local nurseries and garden centers. This small evergreen can be propagated by cuttings and division if additional specimens are required.
Consider adding Muehlenbeckia axillaris ‘Nana’ to your plant palette this year. You will be rewarded with a “spiller” of a plant! For more information on all types of plants suitable for container gardening – the “thrillers, spillers, and fillers” , or to ask a question, please visit https://www.facebook.com/CharlotteCountyExtension. You can also call the Master Gardener Volunteer Helpdesk on Mondays, Wednesdays, and Fridays from 1 to 4 pm at 764-4340 for gardening help and insight into their role as an Extension volunteer. Ralph E. Mitchell is the Director/Horticulture Agent for UF/IFAS Extension Charlotte County. He can be reached at 941-764-4344 or ralph.mitchell@charlottecountyfl.gov. Connect with us on social media. Like us on Facebook @CharlotteCountyExtension and follow us on Instagram @ifascharco.
Resources:
UF/IFAS Gardening Solutions (2026) Container Gardening. The University of Florida Extension Service, IFAS.
Breen, P (2026) Muehlenbeckia axillaris. College of Agricultural Sciences – Department of Horticulture, Oregon State University.
North Carolina Extension Gardener Plant Toolbox (2026) Muehlenbeckia. NC State University.
Franziska (2026) Muehlenbeckia: location, care & winter hardiness. Plantura Magazine. https://plantura.garden/uk/trees-shrubs/muehlenbeckia/muehlenbeckia-overview.
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