Description of Ampelocissus multiloba Gilg & M.Brandt
Ampelocissus multiloba Gilg & M.Brandt is a perennial and woody vine native to tropical Africa, particularly in Cameroon, Gabon, and Congo. This vine belongs to the family Vitaceae, which includes grapes and vines.
Common Names
This vine is commonly known as Congo Vine, Muombo, and Mbaka.
General Appearance
The Ampelocissus multiloba vine grows up to 20 meters long and around 25 cm in diameter, with a semi-woody stem covered in fine hairs. The leaves are glossy, dark green, and measure up to 20 cm in length and 18 cm in width. The vine produces small greenish-yellow flowers in clusters, which later develop into small purple fruits, approximately 5 mm in diameter and contain a single seed.
Uses
The vine is primarily used as a traditional medicine for various ailments like chest pain, gastrointestinal disorders, fever, and infertility. The leaves are pounded into a paste and applied externally to reduce pain and swelling. The vine's bark is also used to cure snake bites and typhoid fever. It is a significant source of food for indigenous forest people, and the leaves and young shoots of the vines are consumed as a vegetable. The vine is also grown as an ornamental plant, and it is commonly grown in gardens or along the side of houses to provide shade.
In summary, Ampelocissus multiloba is a vital plant that provides various benefits to humans, including medicinal and dietary. Its tolerance for a wide range of conditions makes it an ideal plant for horticultural purposes.Light Requirements
Ampelocissus multiloba Gilg & M.Brandt is a species of plant that requires a moderate amount of light to grow. In its natural habitat, it thrives under partial shade or filtered sunlight. Direct sunlight exposure for long periods may cause harm to the leaves and inhibit growth. Therefore, it is recommended to place the plant in an area that provides sufficient shade, such as near a window with sheer curtains or under a tree.
Temperature Requirements
The ideal temperature range for Ampelocissus multiloba Gilg & M.Brandt is between 18°C to 28°C. This species of plant cannot tolerate extreme temperature variations and is highly sensitive to frost and freezing temperatures. Therefore, it is essential to keep the plant in a location that is not exposed to cold drafts or extreme heat.
Soil Requirements
Ampelocissus multiloba Gilg & M.Brandt thrives in well-draining soil that is nutrient-rich and slightly acidic with a pH level of 5.5 to 6.5. The soil should be loose and porous to allow air and water to penetrate easily. It is recommended to add organic matter such as compost or peat moss to enhance the soil's quality and retain moisture. This plant does not tolerate waterlogged soil, so it is best to plant it in a container with drainage holes or on raised beds.
Cultivation of Ampelocissus Multiloba Gilg & M.Brandt
Ampelocissus multiloba Gilg & M.Brandt is an ideal plant to grow indoors as it does not require a lot of space. However, it can also be grown outdoors in a well-draining soil with good fertility.
Watering Needs of Ampelocissus Multiloba Gilg & M.Brandt
Ampelocissus multiloba Gilg & M.Brandt requires a moderate amount of water, and its soil should be kept consistently moist but not waterlogged. It is therefore crucial to ensure that its soil does not dry out completely.
Fertilization of Ampelocissus Multiloba Gilg & M.Brandt
Ampelocissus multiloba Gilg & M.Brandt can be fertilized once every month during the growing season with a balanced liquid fertilizer. It is important to note that over-fertilization can lead to leaf burn or even harm the plant's roots.
Pruning of Ampelocissus Multiloba Gilg & M.Brandt
Ampelocissus multiloba Gilg & M.Brandt is relatively easy to maintain as it does not require a lot of pruning. However, it should be pruned once per year during the dormant season to remove dead or diseased wood, maintain the desired shape, and to encourage new growth.
Propagation of Ampelocissus multiloba Gilg & M.Brandt
Ampelocissus multiloba Gilg & M.Brandt, commonly known as creeping grape vine or false grape vine, is a member of the Vitaceae family. This plant is native to tropical Africa and can be propagated using various methods.
Seed Propagation
Propagation by seed is possible for Ampelocissus multiloba, but it is not recommended. This method is challenging, and the germination rate is usually low. If you choose to propagate through seed, it is essential to ensure that the seeds are fresh and have not been allowed to dry out. Soaking the seeds in warm water for 24 hours before planting can increase the germination rate. The seeds can then be planted in a moist soil mix with good drainage, and kept in a warm location with indirect sunlight.
Cuttings Propagation
Propagation by cuttings is the most common method for Ampelocissus multiloba. Cuttings can be taken from the plant's stem during the growing season. Cuttings with a minimum of three nodes are best suited for propagation. Remove the leaves from the lower node and make an angled cut just below the node. Dip the cut end of the cutting in rooting hormone and plant it in a well-draining potting mix. Water it well and place it in a bright location with indirect sunlight. It is essential to keep the cutting in moist soil and maintain high humidity by covering it with a clear plastic bag.
Air Layering Propagation
Air layering propagation is another reliable method for Ampelocissus multiloba. This method involves creating an artificial root while the cutting is still attached to the plant. Choose a woody stem and make a small cut around the stem's circumference, just below the node. Apply rooting hormone to the cut, wrap it with sphagnum moss, and wrap the moss with plastic wrap. Roots will form in several weeks. Once the roots are visible, cut the stem below the new roots and plant it in a well-draining potting mix.
Disease Management
Ampelocissus multiloba Gilg & M.Brandt is generally a very robust and hardy plant, but it may still fall prey to some diseases. Here are some common diseases that can affect this plant:
- Leaf spot: This is caused by a fungal infection and can be identified by brown spots on the leaves. To manage this, remove the infected parts of the plant and treat with a fungicide.
- Powdery mildew: This is another fungal infection characterized by a white, powdery substance on the leaves. To manage this, remove the infected parts of the plant and treat with a fungicide.
- Root rot: This is caused by over-watering and poor drainage, which can lead to the roots becoming infected and rotting. To manage this, reduce watering and improve drainage by adding some sand or perlite to the soil.
Pest Management
Like any other plant, Ampelocissus multiloba Gilg & M.Brandt can also be affected by pests. Here are some common pests that can attack this plant:
- Aphids: These are small, soft-bodied insects that can be identified by their pear-shaped bodies and long antennae. To manage this, wash the leaves with a strong jet of water or use an insecticide.
- Spider mites: These are tiny pests that can be identified by the presence of webbing on the leaves. To manage this, wash the leaves with a strong jet of water or use an insecticide.
- Mealybugs: These are soft-bodied insects that can be identified by the presence of a white, waxy substance on the leaves. To manage this, wash the leaves with a strong jet of water or use an insecticide.
Regular monitoring of the plant, good cultural practices (e.g., avoiding over-watering), and timely intervention can go a long way in managing diseases and pests in Ampelocissus multiloba Gilg & M.Brandt.
