Overview
Cissus integrifolia (Baker) Planch. is a species of flowering plant in the grape family, Vitaceae, and is native to tropical Africa. It is commonly known as the "African Grape Ivy" and belongs to the Cissus genus that contains over 350 species worldwide. Cissus integrifolia is a twining vine with slightly succulent leaves, and it can grow up to 3-4 meters in length.
Appearance
The plant has green to deep green, glossy, and "fiddle-shaped" leaves with entire margins that grow alternatively on its stem. The leaves are about 5-8 cm in length and 3-5 cm in width. The stem tends to climb or twine around the support. The plant's flowers are small, greenish-white to yellow in color, and grow in clusters. The fruits are small, round, and green, which resemble grapes, about 1 cm in diameter.
Cultural Significance and Uses
Cissus integrifolia is a popular ornamental plant due to its attractive appearance, and it is frequently grown indoors or in greenhouses. It is easy to care for, and it prefers partial to full shade and moderate watering. In traditional African medicine, the roots, leaves, and stems of the plant are used to treat a range of ailments like infections, constipation, toothache, and as a pain reliever. Additionally, the plant's fruit can be eaten raw or made into a sweet-tasting jam.
Furthermore, Cissus integrifolia has potential applications in the pharmaceutical and cosmetic industries due to the presence of various bioactive compounds, including triterpenoids, flavonoids, tannins, and alkaloids, which have therapeutic properties. Studies have shown that these bioactive compounds possess antioxidant, antibacterial, anti-inflammatory, and anticancer activities.
In summary, Cissus integrifolia is a beautiful and useful plant, with diverse uses and cultural significance, making it one of the most interesting members of the Cissus genus.
Growth Conditions of Cissus integrifolia (Baker) Planch.
Light: Cissus integrifolia (Baker) Planch. thrives well in bright, indirect sunlight. This plant prefers a shaded area but needs specific hours of sunshine per day. Therefore, placing it near a west or east-facing window will give it the right amount of light. Although it can survive in low light, it may cause the plant's leaves to become smaller.
Temperature: Warm temperatures are essential for the growth of Cissus integrifolia (Baker) Planch. This plant prefers a temperature range of 60 to 80°F (15 to 27°C) and can live in high temperatures of up to 90°F (32°C). Avoid placing the plant near cold drafts or AC vents.
Humidity: Cissus integrifolia (Baker) Planch. grows well in moderate to high humidity, with a preferred range of 50% or more. Hence, the plant will benefit from being in a bathroom or near a humidifier.
Soil: This plant prefers a well-draining, loamy soil mix with a pH range of 6.0 to 7.0. A mixture of perlite, peat moss, and sand will create an ideal growing medium. Also, ensure the soil is moist but not soggy, as this may lead to root rot disease.
Water: Watering the Cissus integrifolia (Baker) Planch. plant is critical. As mentioned earlier, the soil must be moist but not overloaded with water. Water the plant deeply, then allow the soil to dry partly between watering episodes. The frequency of watering will rely on the specific environmental conditions present.
Fertilizer: Apply a balanced, water-soluble fertilizer, with an NPK ratio of 20-20-20 every two weeks during the growing season. During the dormant period, reduce the frequency of fertilization as the plant does not require as many nutrients at this time.
Propagation: Propagation of Cissus integrifolia (Baker) Planch. is through stem cuttings, which need to be in a warm, humid environment. Propagation is best during spring and summer when the plant experiences active growth. Rooting hormone can be used to enhance the success rate of propagation.
Cultivation Methods
Cissus integrifolia thrives in a range of tropical and subtropical climates. It can be grown both indoors and outdoors. This plant prefers well-draining, loamy soil with adequate aeration and prefers sunlit areas. The best time to plant the Cissus integrifolia is in the spring season.
Watering Needs
Cissus integrifolia requires watering frequently during its growing season, preferably twice a week. It is essential to keep the soil moist but not waterlogged as this could result in root rot. It is critical to avoid overwatering during the winter months when the plant is dormant. You can check the soil moisture level by inserting your finger a few inches into the soil. If it is dry, it is time to water the plant.
Fertilization
This plant requires fertilization during the growing season. It is best to use a standard all-purpose fertilizer every two to three weeks. It is crucial to follow the manufacturer's instructions on the amount of fertilizer to be used. Over-fertilizing can lead to fertilizer burn and damage the plant.
Pruning
Pruning Cissus integrifolia is essential to manage growth and maintain its shape. You can prune the plant throughout the growing season by pinching back the tips of its shoots. It is best to prune back any weak stems or growth from the base of the plant to encourage new growth. Regular pruning also helps to remove any damaged or diseased parts of the plant.
Propagation of Cissus integrifolia (Baker) Planch.
Cissus integrifolia (Baker) Planch., commonly known as the Oak-leaf grape or Veldt Grape, is a perennial climber vine native to eastern and southern Africa. This plant species can be propagated through the following methods:
Seed Propagation
The propagation of Cissus integrifolia can be achieved by the use of seeds. The seeds of this plant can be purchased from seed suppliers or harvested from the fruit of matured plants. Before sowing, the seeds must be soaked in warm water for about 24 hours to stimulate germination.
The seeds should be sown in a well-draining soil mix in a propagation tray. Cover the seeds with a thin layer of soil and spray water over them. Place the tray in a warm, bright location with a temperature range of 20-30°C. Ensure that the soil remains moist until the seeds germinate.
Cutting Propagation
Cuttings can be used to propagate Cissus integrifolia. This method is suitable for obtaining faster results, and it is best carried out during the plant's growing season.
To use stem cuttings, select healthy, immature shoots from the plant and remove the bottom leaves. Cut the stem at an angle of 45 degrees, ensuring it is about 15cm long. Dip the cut end of the stem in a rooting hormone and plant the cutting in a potting mix of sand and perlite. Cover the cutting with a plastic bag to maintain high humidity and place it in a warm, well-lit location. Ensure the soil remains moist by misting it regularly.
Cissus integrifolia can also be propagated through air layering. This method involves locating a healthy and mature stem, removing the leaves from the area where the roots will grow, wounding the stem and dusting it with rooting hormone. Wrap the wounded area with a moist material such as sphagnum moss, secure it with a plastic wrap and wait for new roots to grow. Once the roots are well established, cut the stem below the rooted section and plant it into a pot of well-draining soil mix.
In conclusion, Cissus integrifolia is a resilient plant that can be propagated by seed or cutting. With proper care and attention, these methods can yield healthy and thriving plants.
Disease Management:
Cissus integrifolia is prone to several fungal diseases such as powdery mildew, stem rot, and leaf spot. Powdery mildew appears as a white, powdery substance on the leaves, while stem rot causes the stem to become soft, turn brown and eventually wilt. Leaf spot appears as small black spots on the leaves.
To manage these diseases, ensure the plant receives adequate ventilation and avoid overhead watering. Remove any infected parts of the plant if necessary, and apply fungicides according to the manufacturer's instructions.
Pest Management:
Common pests that can affect Cissus integrifolia include mealybugs, spider mites, and scale insects. Mealybugs are tiny insects that appear as white, cotton-like spots on the leaves and stems. Spider mites cause webbing on the leaves and feeding damage, while scale insects appear as small, hard bumps on the leaves.
To manage these pests, prune and dispose of infected plant parts and ensure the plant is receiving adequate sunlight and nutrition. Use organic insecticidal sprays, neem oil, or insecticidal soap to manage pest infestations. Ensure to follow the manufacturer’s instructions when using these products. Regular monitoring of the plant is also crucial in pest management.
