Overview
Cissus dewevrei De Wild. & T.Durand is a plant species belonging to Vitaceae family. It is a perennial woody climber that is native to Central Africa. This plant is also known as Cissus quadrangularis subsp. dewevrei. Although it is mainly grown for ornamental purposes, this plant is also used for various medicinal purposes.
Common Names
Some of the common names used for Cissus dewevrei De Wild. & T.Durand are:
- Dewevre's Cissus
- African Grape Vine
- Veld Grape Vine
- Cissus Vine
- Insulin Plant
Appearance
Cissus dewevrei De Wild. & T.Durand is a woody climber that can grow up to 5 meters in height. Its stem is quadrangular in shape and can grow up to 2 centimeters in diameter. It has small greenish flowers that form clusters and develop into small round fruits that turn red when ripe. The leaves are simple, alternate and have a smooth texture, with veins that are prominent on the lower surface.
Uses
Cissus dewevrei De Wild. & T.Durand has been traditionally used for the treatment of various health conditions. The plant has been found to have anti-inflammatory, analgesic and antioxidant activities. It has also been used to treat bone fractures, joint pain and menstrual disorders. Additionally, it is rich in vitamins and minerals, making it an excellent nutritional supplement. As an ornamental plant, it is usually grown in gardens and parks for its attractive foliage and as a decorative climber on walls and trellises.
Light Requirements
Cissus dewevrei De Wild. & T.Durand requires bright, indirect light for healthy growth. It can tolerate some direct sunlight during the morning or evening hours, but too much direct sun can scorch its leaves. This plant can also thrive with artificial light, making it a suitable choice for indoor cultivation.
Temperature Requirements
The ideal temperature range for Cissus dewevrei De Wild. & T.Durand is between 60-75°F (15-24°C). It can tolerate cooler temperatures in the winter but should not be exposed to temperatures below 50°F (10°C). This plant cannot tolerate extreme heat, and it is best to keep it away from heating vents or radiators.
Soil Requirements
Cissus dewevrei De Wild. & T.Durand prefers well-draining, aerated soil that is rich in organic matter. A mix of perlite, vermiculite, and peat moss can be used to create a suitable soil mix. This plant does not thrive in soil that is too compact or retains too much water, as this can lead to root rot.
Cultivation Methods
Cissus dewevrei De Wild. & T. Durand, commonly known as "Wine Grape," is a climbing plant that is native to West Africa. It is a hardy plant and can be easily propagated from cuttings. To cultivate the plant, take cuttings from healthy specimens and plant them in a well-draining soil mixture. The soil should be kept moist until the plant is established and then kept on the drier side to prevent root rot. The plant prefers bright, indirect light and can be grown indoors as well as outdoors.
Watering Needs
The Wine Grape plant prefers well-draining soil that is kept slightly dry between watering. Overwatering can lead to root rot and damage to the plant. Water the plant when the top few inches of soil are dry to the touch. During the winter months, reduce watering to allow the plant to enter a dormant period.
Fertilization
Fertilizing the Wine Grape plant is essential to promote healthy growth. Fertilize once a month during the growing season with a balanced fertilizer, diluted to half strength. Avoid fertilizing during the dormant period in the winter, as this can damage the plant.
Pruning
Pruning the Wine Grape plant is essential to promote healthy growth and to keep the plant in shape. Prune the plant during the growing season by removing any dead or diseased portions of the plant. Cut back any leggy growth to encourage bushier growth. Train the remaining stems to grow in the desired direction by tying them to a support structure. Regular pruning will keep the plant healthy and looking its best.
Propagation of Cissus dewevrei De Wild. & T.Durand
Cissus dewevrei De Wild. & T.Durand, commonly known as Dewevre's Grape, belongs to the Vitaceae family. This plant is propagated through stem cuttings and seeds.
Propagation by Stem Cuttings
Stem cuttings are the most common method of propagation for Cissus dewevrei De Wild. & T.Durand. Follow the below steps to propagate the plant through stem cuttings:
- Select a healthy stem of the plant and make a cutting of about 10-15cm in length.
- Remove leaves from the bottom 2/3 part of the cutting.
- Dip the cut end of the stem in rooting hormone powder.
- Plant the cutting in a pot containing a well-draining potting mix.
- Cover the pot with a plastic bag to retain moisture and place it in bright, indirect light.
- Roots will start to form within two weeks. Once the roots are visible, remove the plastic bag and water the plant regularly.
Propagation by Seeds
Propagation by seeds is also possible for Cissus dewevrei De Wild. & T.Durand. Follow the below steps to propagate the plant through seeds:
- Collect ripe berries from the plant and extract seeds from them.
- Clean the seeds and soak them in water overnight to soften the hard seed coat.
- Sow the seeds in a pot containing a well-draining potting mix and cover them with a thin layer of soil.
- Water the pot regularly and place it in bright, indirect light.
- Germination will occur within two weeks to a month.
- Once the seedlings reach a height of 5-6cm, transplant them into individual pots.
Disease Management for Cissus dewevrei
Cissus dewevrei is a relatively hardy plant that can resist disease if grown under the right conditions and with proper care. However, it may still be susceptible to fungal infections, root rot, and other diseases if grown under unfavorable conditions, such as overwatering or in poorly drained soils. Here are some ways you can manage and prevent disease in this plant:
- Make sure to plant Cissus dewevrei in well-draining soil and avoid overwatering to prevent root rot and other fungal infections.
- Avoid crowding the plants as this may encourage the spread of diseases through contact.
- Regularly remove any dead or diseased leaves and branches to prevent the spread of infections to healthy parts of the plant.
- If you notice any signs of disease on your Cissus dewevrei, such as yellowing or wilting leaves, treat the plant with a suitable fungicide.
- Maintain good air circulation around the plant by pruning or thinning the canopy, as this can help prevent fungal infections as well.
Pest Management for Cissus dewevrei
Cissus dewevrei is also susceptible to damage from various pests, such as spider mites, scale insects, mealybugs, and thrips. These pests can suck the sap from the plant, causing stunted growth, yellowing, and wilting of leaves. Here are some ways you can manage and prevent pest infestations in Cissus dewevrei:
- Inspect the plant regularly for signs of infestation, such as yellow spots, webbing, or sticky residue on the leaves, and act promptly at the first sign of infestation.
- Use a non-toxic insecticidal soap or neem oil to control pests without harming the beneficial insects in the garden.
- If the infestation is severe, use a chemical pesticide that is safe for the environment and follow the instructions on the label carefully.
- Avoid placing the plant in direct sunlight or under artificial light for extended periods, as this can attract thrips and other pests.
- Keep the plant well-watered and pruned regularly, as this can help prevent pest infestations.
