Geitonoplesium cymosum [Asphodelaceae]; 'Scrambling lily'The idea that monocots can be climbers may seem counterintuitive at first blush. But there are in fact several climbing monocots in the Sydney region, including Eustrephus latifolius, Smilax glyciphylla and Smilax australis.
To me, the most interesting horticulturally is Geitonoplesium cymosum, due to its graceful, delicate foliage, borne on dark green wiry stems that entwine upon themselves. Occupying a place in the family Asphodelaceae, it’s amazing to think that this tangle of a plant shares a close relationship with aloes, grass trees and New Zealand flax, but natural selection does not account for humanity’s preference for groupings based on visual characteristics. Another genus that it shares commonality with is Dianella, the flowers of which are actually very similar in structure to Geitonoplesium, even if the growth habits are distinct.
I believe this species is the most underrated climber in Sydney! Shade or Part Shade; Moist until established; Sand, Clay or loamy garden mix. We've grown it in projects both trained on wires along a fence, and in-ground – to sprawl and twine through ferns and climbers. We’ve also seen it pruned as a mounding shrubby form at the display garden of Sutherland Shire Community Nursery.
