Overview
Cissus aralioides subsp. orientalis Verdc. is a species of flowering plant. It is a member of the grape family Vitaceae, native to East Africa.
Common Names
The plant is commonly known as Ivy-leaved Cissus.
Appearance
This Cissus species is a climbing or trailing vine that can grow up to 4-5 meters long. It has a succulent stem that is greenish-grey in color, with aerial roots or tendrils that can attach to surfaces to climb. The foliage is evergreen, with shiny, leathery, dark green leaves shaped like an inverted egg, about 3-8 cm long and 2-5 cm wide, with toothed margins and a pointed tip.
The plant flowers in the summer, producing small, inconspicuous, greenish flowers that are grouped in panicles, followed by small, black berries, which are edible but not often used.
Uses
Cissus aralioides subsp. orientalis Verdc. is mostly used as an ornamental plant, grown for its attractive foliage and ability to climb and cover structures. It is ideal for covering trellises, walls, and pergolas, and suitable for both indoor and outdoor use. Its attractive foliage has led to the cultivation of several cultivars. It is also believed to have medicinal properties and has been used in traditional medicine to treat wounds, promote healing, and relieve pain.
Light Requirements
Cissus aralioides subsp. orientalis Verdc. prefers bright and indirect light. Direct sunlight can harm the plant and cause its leaves to burn. If the plant is placed too far from a light source, it may grow weak and leggy. However, exposing the plant to direct sunlight for a short period each day can help to enhance its growth and development.
Temperature Requirements
The plant can thrive in temperatures ranging from 18°C to 32°C. It can tolerate lower temperatures but not frost. The ideal temperature for this species is between 20°C and 25°C. Temperatures below 18°C can cause the plant to wilt, while temperatures above 32°C can cause the leaves to become brown and dry. It is important to note that temperature fluctuations can affect the growth of this plant.
Soil Requirements
The ideal soil for Cissus aralioides subsp. orientalis Verdc. is well-draining loam soil. The pH of the soil should be slightly acidic to neutral. To ensure proper drainage, the soil should be mixed with sand or perlite. The plant requires consistent moisture to thrive, but overwatering can lead to root rot. A good watering routine is to water the plant once a week and let the soil dry out slightly between watering. Fertilizer can be applied every two weeks during the growing season, but it is important not to over-fertilize.
Cultivation Methods
Cissus aralioides (Baker) Planch. subsp. orientalis Verdc. is a native of Tropical Africa, and it prefers warmer temperatures ranging from 16 to 32 degrees Celsius (61-89 degrees Fahrenheit), making it suitable for USDA hardiness zones 10-12. It can grow in indoor and outdoor settings, with a preference for partial shade to full sun exposure. The plant thrives in well-drained soil, with a slightly acidic to neutral pH (6.0-7.0). It is essential to provide a trellis or pole for support as the plant grows upwards.
Watering Needs
Cissus aralioides (Baker) Planch. subsp. orientalis Verdc. requires moderate watering. It is important not to let the soil dry out completely; watering once a week is sufficient for outdoor plants and twice a week for indoor plants. A good watering schedule is to use a moisture meter for consistent reading of the soil's moisture content. Another technique is to check the soil's surface with your finger; if the top inch or two feels dry, it is time for watering. Overwatering can lead to root rot; therefore, it is essential to avoid standing water and ensure proper drainage.
Fertilization
Cissus aralioides (Baker) Planch. subsp. orientalis Verdc. benefits from occasional fertilizing to encourage healthy growth and lush foliage. It is best to start with a balanced fertilizer such as 10-10-10 in the early spring as growth begins. Follow up with another application in late summer to support the plant's growth as it enters the cooler months. In hot weather or during active growth, fertilizing can be done once every two weeks. It is important not to over-fertilize as it may lead to chemical burns, which can damage the plant.
Pruning
Pruning can help with maintaining the plant's health and shape. It is best to prune in the early spring before new growth begins. Remove any yellow or brown leaves, prune back any leggy branches to encourage bushier growth, and remove the dead or diseased parts of the plant. You can also trim the plant down to a manageable size if it becomes too large. Use clean and sharp pruning tools to avoid tearing or injuring the plant's branches.
Propagation of Cissus aralioides subsp. orientalis Verdc.
Cissus aralioides subsp. orientalis Verdc. is a woody vine species that is native to East Africa. This plant species can be propagated through the following methods:
Seed propagation
Cissus aralioides subsp. orientalis Verdc. can be propagated through seeds, but this method is not commonly used. The seeds should be sown in well-drained soil mixed with sand or perlite to increase drainage. The pots should be placed in a warm and bright area, but not under direct sunlight. The seeds should germinate within 2-4 weeks, and once the plants have developed a few leaves, they can be transplanted into individual pots.
Stem cuttings propagation
Stem cuttings propagation is the most common method used for Cissus aralioides subsp. orientalis Verdc. Cuttings should be taken from mature stems during the growing season. The cuttings should be 10-15 centimeters long, and all leaves except for the top two should be removed. The cuttings should be planted in sterile and well-draining soil and kept in a warm environment with gentle misting to maintain moisture. Roots should appear within 2-4 weeks, and the new plants can be transplanted into individual pots.
Air layering propagation
Air layering is another propagation method that can be used for Cissus aralioides subsp. orientalis Verdc. This method involves making a small cut on the stem of the plant and covering the wound with a moist growing medium. The wound should be wrapped with plastic wrap or another moisture-retaining material to maintain humidity. Roots should appear in 4-6 weeks, and the propagated plant can be removed and transplanted into individual pots.
Overall, Cissus aralioides subsp. orientalis Verdc. can be propagated through seed, stem cuttings, or air layering. Stem cuttings are the most common and effective method of propagation for this plant species.
Disease Management
Cissus aralioides subsp. orientalis is a hardy plant and usually not susceptible to many diseases. However, under certain conditions, it can be affected by some diseases such as:
- Powdery Mildew: This disease is common in plants grown in humid environments and can be identified by the presence of a white or gray powdery substance on the leaves. To manage this disease, ensure adequate air circulation around the plant, avoid overhead watering, and use fungicides as necessary.
- Downy Mildew: This disease is common in damp environments and can be detected by yellow spots on the plant leaves. To manage this disease, remove and destroy the affected parts of the plant, apply a copper fungicide, and maintain the plant in a well-ventilated area.
Pest Management
Even though Cissus aralioides subsp. orientalis is not usually affected by pests, sometimes they can invade the plant. The common pests that can invade the plant include:
- Spider Mites: These pests are small in size and can be identified by the web-like substance on the plant leaves. To manage the mites, use insecticidal soap or neem oil, increase humidity levels around the plant, and maintain soil moisture at an optimal level.
- Mealybugs: These pests are white, fluffy, and can be easily seen on the plant leaves. To manage these pests, use a cotton swab to remove them and dip the swab in alcohol to destroy the pests.
Regularly inspecting the plant for pests and diseases and taking prompt action can help maintain a healthy and disease-free Cissus aralioides subsp. orientalis plant.
