Overview:
Cissus incisa auct. non Des Moulins is a member of the family Vitaceae and is known for its ornamental uses in gardens. Commonly called Ivy treebine or Agile climber, this plant is native to China and Southeast Asia.
Appearance:
The Cissus incisa plant is a deciduous vine that can grow up to 15 feet in length. It has dark green leaves that are shaped like arrowheads and grow up to 4 inches long. This plant produces small, greenish-yellow flowers in clusters during late spring to early summer. The plant primarily blooms in clusters.
Uses:
Cissus incisa auct. non Des Moulins is primarily used as an ornamental plant in gardens, as it can cover walls, trellises, fences, or any other structure that supports its growth. Due to its flexibility and agile nature, it is also used to create artificial green barriers. The plant requires well-drained soil, but it can easily grow in a variety of soil types. Additionally, Cissus incisa can be grown in semi-shaded to completely shaded areas, making it adaptable to many growing conditions. It is also known for its excellent air-purifying properties that helps remove pollutants from the surrounding environment including smoke, benzene, and formaldehyde. It can be a valuable addition to indoor gardens and office spaces as well.
In traditional Chinese medicine, the plant's various parts have long been used in treating ailments like bone fractures, skin infections, and rheumatism. Some research also suggests that the plant possesses several pharmacological and therapeutic properties like antioxidant, antidiabetic, and anti-inflammatory.
The plant's woody stems are sometimes used as a substitute for large bamboo due to their size and flexibility. The stems can also be processed for making baskets, furniture, and other ornamental objects.
Light Requirements
Cissus incisa auct. non Des Moulins requires bright, indirect sunlight to thrive. It should be placed in a location that receives partial to full shade, especially during the hottest part of the day. Direct sunlight can damage the leaves, causing them to wilt and burn.
Temperature Requirements
The ideal temperature range for Cissus incisa auct. non Des Moulins is between 18°C to 24°C (64°F to 75°F). It cannot tolerate extreme temperature fluctuations, so it should be kept away from cold drafts or hot radiators. Too much heat or cold can stress the plant, leading to poor growth and even death.
Soil Requirements
Cissus incisa auct. non Des Moulins grows best in well-draining soil that is high in organic matter. A soil mix that contains a combination of peat moss, perlite, and vermiculite is ideal. The pH level should be slightly acidic, with a range of 6.0 to 6.5. This plant is sensitive to salt buildup, so it's important to avoid using water with a high salt content.
Cultivation methods
Cissus incisa auct. non Des Moulins is a beautiful ornamental plant suitable for both indoor and outdoor cultivation. When planted indoors, this plant requires bright indirect light, while outdoor cultivation requires partial shade. The plant prefers a well-draining soil mixture rich in organic matter like perlite, peat moss, and sand. The plant should be planted in a potting container with drainage holes and provided support like a trellis or stake for the vine to grow and climb.
Watering needs
The Cissus incisa auct. non Des Moulins plant requires consistent and even watering to remain healthy. The soil should be kept consistently moist but avoid overwatering, which could lead to root rot. The frequency of watering and the amount of water required will depend on the plant's size, light exposure, and humidity. It is best to water the plant when the top inch of soil feels dry to the touch.
Fertilization
The plant requires regular feeding to stay healthy and grow well. During the growing season, fertilize every two weeks with a balanced, water-soluble fertilizer, preferably one specially formulated for flowering houseplants. It is best to follow the manufacturer's instructions for the right dosage and frequency of application. During the dormant season, reduce the frequency of feeding or stop entirely.
Pruning
Pruning is a crucial aspect of caring for Cissus incisa auct. non Des Moulins, especially since it is a vine that can get out of control if not regularly trimmed. Pruning should take place regularly, with the goal of shaping and controlling the plant's size. Cut back any long vines to two nodes or leaves, as this will encourage bushy growth and lateral branching. Prune dead or discolored leaves to prevent any potential spread of disease or pests.
Propagation of Cissus incisa
Cissus incisa can be propagated through various methods including layering, stem cuttings, and seed propagation.
Layering
Layering is one of the easiest ways to propagate Cissus incisa. Simply select a healthy branch from an established plant and cut a small notch on the bottom side of the branch. Apply rooting hormone to the cut, then bury the notched section in moist soil. After a few weeks, small roots should begin to form and the new plant can be separated from the mother plant.
Stem cuttings
Stem cuttings can also be taken from a healthy plant. Select a stem with several leaves and make a clean cut just below a node. Remove the lower leaves, leaving only a few at the top, and apply rooting hormone to the cut. Place the cutting in moist soil, cover it with a plastic bag, and keep the soil moist until roots form. Once roots have formed, the plant can be transplanted to a larger pot or into the ground.
Seed propagation
Propagation by seed is another method to grow Cissus incisa, although it can be more challenging. Collect the seeds and soak them in water for a day. Sow the seeds in a well-draining potting mix and keep the soil consistently moist. Germination can take several weeks to a few months. Once the seedlings have developed several true leaves, they can be transplanted to larger pots or outdoors.
Disease and Pest Management for Cissus incisa
Cissus incisa, commonly known as the ivy treebine, is generally easy to care for and has a good resistance to most diseases and pests. However, in some circumstances, it can be attacked by some common pests and diseases that may need attention and management to prevent their spread and harm on the plant's health.
Common diseases
Cissus incisa may suffer from fungal infections, especially if grown in humid conditions or wet soils that promote the development of fungal spores that attack the leaves and stems.
Powdery mildew is a common fungal disease that appears as a white powdery coating on the leaves, leading to discoloration and deformity of the leaves. To manage it, provide proper air circulation and avoid overcrowding plants. Application of fungicides can also prove effective.
Anthracnose, another fungal infection, can cause leaf spots and uneven drying of the leaves, leading to the shedding off of leaves. The management of this disease involves proper sanitation, pruning off the affected parts of the plant and the application of fungicides.
Common pests
Cissus incisa can also be attacked by various pests that include:
Spider mites, which are small, red-brown colored creatures, visible with a naked eye on the leaves' underside, sucking sap from tender parts of the plant. Manage them by regular misting, pruning off infected plants, and using insecticidal soap.
Scale insects appear as small, immobile, brown or gray bumps along the stems and the underside of leaves. They can harm the plant by sucking its sap; thus, they need to be managed through application of neem oil, manual removal, or biological treatments such as ladybugs and parasitic wasps.
Mealybugs, small white, cottony creatures that spread swiftly and cause yellowing of the leaves. They can also be managed by manual removal, physical barriers, and insecticides.
Proper care of the plant, such as avoiding excess moisture, overcrowding, and providing adequate lighting, can also help prevent the occurrence of pests and diseases. Prompt identification of any disease or pest problems and quick management can help keep the plant healthy and beautiful.
