Overview: Cissus Gossweileri Exell & Mendonça var. Hirsuto-pubescens Dewit
Cissus Gossweileri Exell & Mendonça var. Hirsuto-pubescens Dewit is a plant belonging to the grape family, Vitaceae. It is a flowering plant that is native to Zambia and Angola, where it grows in the regions of Benguela and Huambo.
Common Names
The plant is commonly known as the "Angolan Grape," named after the country of Angola, where it is commonly found.
Appearance
Cissus Gossweileri Exell & Mendonça var. Hirsuto-pubescens Dewit is a climbing plant that can grow up to 3 meters in length. It has round, green leaves that are covered in fine, soft hairs. The plant's stems are also covered with hairs and have tendrils that help it climb. The flowers of the plant are small and white, followed by grape-like fruits that turn black when they are ripe.
Uses
The fruit of the Cissus Gossweileri Exell & Mendonça var. Hirsuto-pubescens Dewit is edible and is commonly consumed in the regions of Angola and Zambia. The leaves of the plant are also used in traditional medicine to treat various ailments, including stomach problems, fevers, and headaches. Additionally, the plant is used as a decorative plant, adding beauty to gardens and landscapes.
Growth Conditions for Cissus gossweileri Exell & Mendonça var. hirsuto-pubescens Dewit
Cissus gossweileri Exell & Mendonça var. hirsuto-pubescens Dewit grows best in bright, indirect sunlight. It is recommended to place the plant near a window facing east or west, so it can receive the appropriate amount of sunlight. Too much direct sunlight can lead to leaf scorching and damage to the plant, while too little light can cause the plant to grow weak and leggy.
As for temperature, Cissus gossweileri Exell & Mendonça var. hirsuto-pubescens Dewit prefers warm temperatures between 60-80°F (15-27°C). It is essential to avoid exposing the plant to cold drafts or sudden temperature changes, as it can cause damage to the leaves and affect the plant's overall growth.
The soil requirements for Cissus gossweileri Exell & Mendonça var. hirsuto-pubescens Dewit are well-draining and rich in organic matter. A good mixture would be two-parts potting soil, one-part perlite, and one-part peat moss. It is also important to keep the soil moist but not waterlogged as it can lead to root rot. Watering once a week or when the top inch of soil becomes dry is recommended.
Lastly, providing a humid environment can help the plant thrive. Mist the leaves with water once a day or use a humidifier to increase the humidity around the plant.
Cultivation Methods
Cissus gossweileri Exell & Mendonça var. hirsuto-pubescens Dewit is a climbing plant native to Angola, Africa. This plant thrives in bright, indirect sunlight and prefers well-draining soil. It requires a warm and humid environment to grow.
In terms of placement, this plant can be grown in a hanging basket or attached to a trellis or pole. It will climb and twine around the support structure. Prune regularly to control the plant's growth and shape.
Watering Needs
Watering is an important consideration for this plant. It requires regular watering, but the soil should be allowed to dry out slightly between waterings. Overwatering can cause root rot and damage the plant. To determine if the plant requires watering, stick your finger an inch into the soil. If the soil is dry, water the plant. Avoid getting water on the foliage as it can cause fungal issues.
Fertilization
To facilitate growth and promote health, fertilize the plant during the growing season from spring to fall. You can apply a balanced, water-soluble fertilizer every two weeks. Avoid fertilizing during the winter months, as this plant becomes dormant during this time.
Pruning
Pruning this plant is essential to control its growth and overall shape. It will also encourage branching, leading to denser foliage. Prune during the spring and summer months when the plant is actively growing. Cut back any overgrown or leggy stems to promote bushier growth. Trim the plant to the desired shape after each growing season. Pinching back the tips of the stems will help the plant to produce lateral shoots.
Propagation of Cissus gossweileri Exell & Mendonça var. hirsuto-pubescens Dewit
Propagation is the process of growing new plants from existing ones. There are several methods of propagation, including sexual and asexual reproduction. Cissus gossweileri Exell & Mendonça var. hirsuto-pubescens Dewit can be propagated through several techniques depending on the preference of the grower.
Asexual propagation
Cissus gossweileri Exell & Mendonça var. hirsuto-pubescens Dewit can be propagated asexually through stem cuttings, layering, and division.
Stem cuttings: Cuttings can be taken in the spring or summer. Take a 4 to a 6-inch long cutting from the tip of a stem. Ensure that the cutting has at least two leaves. Remove the bottom leaves and dip the end in rooting hormone. Plant the cutting in a well-draining soil mix, keep moist and place in a bright, indirect light location.
Layering: Layering is a technique where a portion of a stem is covered with soil while it is still attached to the mother plant. This portion will grow roots while still attached to the main plant. Once the rooted portion has established adequate roots, it can be removed and planted as a new plant.
Division: Division involves separating the main plant into smaller parts with separate root systems. This process is usually performed during the repotting process. Gently remove the plant from its pot, and separate the main root system into smaller sections with healthy leaves. Re-pot each section into their pots, and water adequately.
Sexual propagation
Sexual propagation is a process that involves the use of seeds to grow new plants. However, Cissus gossweileri Exell & Mendonça var. hirsuto-pubescens Dewit are rarely grown from seed. Collect ripe, dark-colored berries and soak them in water. Rub the seeds with fine sandpaper to break the seed coat and improve germination. Sow the seeds in a well-draining potting mix and keep the soil moist. Germination can take a long time and may require special conditions to enhance success.
Disease Management
Cissus gossweileri Exell & Mendonça var. hirsuto-pubescens Dewit is susceptible to various diseases which may hinder its growth and productivity. Here are some common diseases that might affect the plant and how to manage them:
- Leaf Spot: This disease is characterized by the presence of black or brown spots on the leaves of the plant. To manage this disease, remove the infected leaves from the plant and ensure that the plant is not overwatered as excessive moisture can promote the growth of the pathogen causing the disease.
- Powdery Mildew: This is a fungal disease that causes a white powdery growth on the leaves of the plant. To manage this disease, apply a fungicide on the infected areas and ensure that the plant is not overcrowded as this can promote the growth of the fungus.
- Root Rot: Root rot is caused by excessive soil moisture and can lead to the death of the plant. To manage this disease, ensure that the plant is not overwatered and that the soil drains well. Remove any infected plants from the area to prevent spread to healthy plants.
Pest Management
Cissus gossweileri Exell & Mendonça var. hirsuto-pubescens Dewit is also susceptible to pests that can cause damage to the plant. Here are some common pests that might affect the plant and how to manage them:
- Aphids: Aphids are small insects that feed on the leaves and stems of the plant. To manage this pest, spray the plant with an insecticide or use neem oil as a natural alternative.
- Mealybugs: Mealybugs are small white insects that feed on the sap of the plant. To manage this pest, apply rubbing alcohol to the infected areas or use neem oil as a natural alternative.
- Spider mites: Spider mites are tiny insects that create a web-like substance on the plant and feed on the sap. To manage this pest, spray the plant with an insecticide or use neem oil as a natural alternative.
