[1] Muehlenbeckia complexa is one of 50 species of shrubs that are divided into 21 family groups known to be divaricate, with interlaced branches and a reduced number of leaves.

[4] The stems are tough and woody, with numerous branches tightly interlaced, bark is red-brown in colour and have a wiry appearance.

The flowers are delightfully scented and are supported on spikes approximately 2 cm long, that emerge from the leaf axils and the tips of branchlets.

[6] Other names include tororaro (Māori), mattress plant, wiggy-bush,[6] and wire vine.

This plant has also been introduced in Western Australia,[10] Mexico, the U.K., Malaysia, Japan, and parts of South America.

In its native environment it plays a key role sealing human and natural disturbances on the forest edge.

[13] Since 1995 or earlier, it has been a problematic invasive species in the Golden Gate National Recreation Area[18] including Lands End, San Francisco[19] and the Presidio of San Francisco[20] and eradication requires 3–5 years monitoring and maintenance.