Introduction
Cissus egestosus Werderm. is a member of the Vitaceae family and is commonly known by its vernacular name, "Wakanakalau". This plant is native to Ecuador and Peru where it grows in the montane forest at altitudes of up to 1200m above sea level.
General Appearance
Cissus egestosus is a liana with twining stems that can reach up to 15m in length. The branches are thin and flexible, with a diameter of up to 3mm. The leaves are simple, alternate, and are characterized by their asymmetrical shape, being larger on one side than the other. The leaves are up to 15cm long and are vibrant green in color. The stems of the plant exude a milky sap when cut.
Uses
Cissus egestosus has various traditional medicinal uses, primarily as a remedy for digestive ailments, such as diarrhea and dysentery. The plant is also used to treat hypertension and has been found to have anti-inflammatory and analgesic properties. In addition, the stem of the plant is used in local handicrafts to make baskets and other woven items.
Recent scientific research has shown that Cissus egestosus holds promising therapeutic potential as it contains high levels of phenolic compounds and flavonoids. These compounds have antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties and may potentially be used to protect against several chronic diseases, including cancer, cardiovascular disease, and diabetes.
Conclusion
Cissus egestosus Werderm. is a versatile plant that has various traditional medicinal uses and shows potential as a source of natural antioxidants and anti-inflammatory compounds. The unique shape of its leaves and the flexible, twining stems make it a visually attractive plant fitting for both cultivation and use in traditional handicrafts.
Light Requirements
Cissus egestosus Werderm. thrives best in a bright and sunny location with partial shade. It cannot tolerate full shade or direct sun exposure for extended periods. Therefore, it is best to place the plant in bright, indirect light to promote optimal growth.
Temperature Requirements
The suitable temperature range for Cissus egestosus Werderm. ranges from 15 to 25°C. It can tolerate temperature variations but not extreme conditions. In winter, it can tolerate temperatures as low as 10°C. However, in summer, it can handle temperatures up to 30°C. It is essential to maintain a consistent temperature to avoid plant stress.
Soil Requirements
Cissus egestosus Werderm. prefers moist but well-drained soil. The soil should have a pH range of 6.0 to 7.5. The ideal soil type is sandy loam soil or a mixture of sandy and clay soil. It also requires fertile soil, rich in organic matter. The plant can grow in a pot or directly in the ground if the soil requirements are met.
Cultivation
Cissus egestosus Werderm. is a vine that is native to Mexico and Central America. It can be grown both indoors and outdoors, depending on the climate. If you live in an area with frost, it is best to grow it indoors.
The plant prefers indirect, bright light, so place it near a window where it can get plenty of light but not direct sunlight. It thrives in temperatures between 65 and 75 degrees Fahrenheit.
Watering Needs
Cissus egestosus Werderm. requires regular watering, but be careful not to overwater it. The soil should be moist but not waterlogged. It is best to water the plant when the top inch of soil has dried out.
During the growing season, water the plant once a week. During the winter months, reduce watering to once every two weeks.
Fertilization
During the growing season, fertilize Cissus egestosus Werderm. every two weeks with a balanced liquid fertilizer. It is recommended to dilute the fertilizer to half-strength to avoid overfeeding the plant.
Avoid fertilizing the plant during the winter months as it is in dormancy during this time.
Pruning
To keep the plant looking neat and tidy, prune it regularly. Prune any dead or damaged leaves or stems. It is also recommended to pinch off the tips of the vine to encourage branching.
You can prune the plant at any time during the year, but the best time is during the spring or early summer before the growing season.
Propagation of Cissus egestosus Werderm.
Cissus egestosus Werderm., commonly known as the Devil's Backbone, is a resilient and fast-growing plant that can be easily propagated through several techniques such as stem cuttings, air layering, and seeds. Below are the detailed propagation methods for Devil's Backbone.
Propagation by Stem Cuttings
Propagation of Cissus egestosus can be primarily achieved through stem cuttings. Select healthy and matured stems with at least two nodes and a few leaves. Razor or pruning shears should be sterilized with alcohol or bleach to prevent the spread of diseases. Remove the lower leaves of the cutting and dip it into rooting hormone powder. Then, plant the cutting into a well-draining potting soil mix. Keep the soil moist and avoid overwatering. Place the pot in a bright area with indirect light. Once the cutting has rooted, it can be transplanted into a larger pot or outside.
Propagation by Air Layering
Another propagation method for Devil's Backbone is air layering. For this method, select a healthy, woody, and mature stem, about 1/2 to 3/4 inch in diameter. Cut the bark in a ring around the stem, around 1-2 inches apart. Apply rooting hormone to the ringed area. Surround the ring with damp sphagnum moss and wrap it with plastic wrap. Keep the moss moist by watering it regularly. After a few weeks, the roots will start to form. Cut the stem below the rooted area and transplant it into a new pot with fresh potting soil mix.
Propagation by Seeds
Propagation of Devil's Backbone can also be done by seeds. Collect the seeds from a mature plant and soak them in room temperature water overnight. Sow the seeds on top of a well-draining potting soil mix, and cover them lightly. Keep the soil moist by misting it with water regularly. The seeds will usually germinate within a few weeks. Once the seedlings have grown around 2-3 inches tall, they can be transplanted into larger pots.
Disease and Pest Management for Cissus egestosus Werderm.
Cissus egestosus Werderm. is a hardy and resilient plant that can still be affected by diseases and pests from time to time. In the following paragraphs, we'll discuss common diseases and pests that might affect Cissus egestosus and suggest ways to manage them.
Common Diseases and Pests
Like many other plants, Cissus egestosus is susceptible to fungal diseases that can affect its leaves, stems, and flowers. One common fungal disease is powdery mildew, which causes a white, powdery growth to appear on the leaves. Another common fungal disease is botrytis blight, which causes brown spots and mold to develop on the leaves and flowers.
As for pests, Cissus egestosus can be vulnerable to sap-sucking insects like aphids, mealybugs, and spider mites, all of which can weaken the plant and cause wilting leaves. Thrips, tiny insects that feed on the plant's tissues, can also be a problem, causing leaves to turn yellow and fall off.
Disease and Pest Management
To manage fungal diseases in Cissus egestosus, it's essential to maintain good air circulation around the plant by regularly trimming away dead or damaged leaves. Avoid overhead watering and instead use a soaker hose or drip irrigation to prevent excess moisture from lingering on the leaves, which can promote fungal growth. Applying a fungicide such as neem oil or copper-based spray can also be effective in controlling fungal diseases.
For pest management, regularly inspect your Cissus egestosus for signs of infestation and introduce beneficial insects like ladybugs or lacewings that feed on sap-sucking pests. Alternatively, use insecticidal soap or neem oil to get rid of these pests. To prevent thrips infestations, install yellow sticky traps around the plant or use a systemic pesticide that will protect the plant from inside-out.
If pests or diseases persist despite good maintenance practices or home remedies, consult a professional plant care expert to diagnose the problem and recommend appropriate treatments.
