Description of Cissus neghelliensis Lanza
Cissus neghelliensis Lanza, commonly called the "Neghelliensis vine," is a species of flowering plant in the grape family (Vitaceae). It is native to Ethiopia and Somalia, flourishing in dry and rocky highlands at elevations up to 2000 meters above sea level.
General Appearance
The Neghelliensis vine has a woody and twining stem that can grow up to 6 meters long. Its leaves are alternate, simple, and deeply lobed with toothed margins. They are also thick and succulent, making them ideal for retaining moisture in arid conditions. The Neghelliensis vine produces small, greenish-yellow flowers that bloom in clusters and are followed by small, round, and black berries.
Common Names
The Neghelliensis vine is commonly known as the "Neghelliensis cissus" or simply "Neghelliensis" in reference to the location where it is often found. In Ethiopia, it is called "Solia", while in Somalia, it goes by the name "Sooqa Balaq". The plant has also been referred to as "Vitis neghelliensis" due to its close relation to other species in the grape family.
Uses
The Neghelliensis vine has several uses, particularly for medicinal and culinary purposes. Its leaves and stems are used in traditional medicine to treat various ailments like diarrhea, dysentery, and stomach aches. The Neghelliensis vine is also a significant source of food for livestock in the areas where it grows. Additionally, the berries can be eaten raw or used to make jams and juices.
In modern times, the plant has also gained popularity as a decorative indoor plant due to its resilience and ease of care. Its succulent foliage and trailing habit make it an attractive addition to hanging planters or trellises.
Light
Cissus neghelliensis Lanza requires bright but indirect light to grow successfully. Direct sunlight can damage the leaves, so it should be avoided. Placing the plant near a window that receives filtered light is ideal.
Temperature
Cissus neghelliensis Lanza prefers warm temperatures between 18°C to 24 °C. Temperatures below 15°C may hinder the growth of the plant, eventually leading to its death. It is important to maintain consistent temperatures throughout the day and night.
Soil Requirements
The plant prefers well-draining soil that is slightly acidic. This species grows best in soils that are rich in organic matter. A soil blend of peat moss, perlite, and sand is suitable for the plant.
The soil should be kept moist but not waterlogged. Overwatering may lead to root rot and may damage the plant. Ensure that the pot has good drainage and avoid allowing the plant to sit in water for extended periods.
Cultivation Method
Cissus neghelliensis Lanza is a relatively easy plant to cultivate. It can be grown indoors or outdoors in a variety of soil types. It prefers well-draining soil and a warm climate, with temperatures between 15°C and 30°C. The plant can be propagated through stem cuttings or seeds. Cuttings should be taken in the spring or summer and allowed to root in a well-draining soil mix before being transplanted into a permanent pot or location.
Watering Needs
Cissus neghelliensis Lanza prefers to be kept moderately moist. During the growing season, it should be watered regularly, allowing the top inch of soil to dry out before watering again. Overwatering can lead to root rot and should be avoided. In the winter, the plant should be watered less frequently, allowing the soil to dry out more between waterings.
Fertilization
To promote growth and flowering, feed Cissus neghelliensis Lanza with a balanced fertilizer once a month during the growing season. Use a fertilizer high in phosphorus to encourage flowering. Be sure to follow the instructions on the fertilizer package and avoid overfertilizing, as this can lead to salt buildup and damage to the plant.
Pruning
Regular pruning of Cissus neghelliensis Lanza is recommended to keep the plant bushy and promote flowering. Prune back any leggy or straggling stems, and remove any dead or damaged foliage. Cutting the plant back can also induce branching and encourage a fuller, bushier plant. Pruning should be done in the early spring before new growth appears.
Propagation of Cissus neghelliensis Lanza
Cissus neghelliensis Lanza, also known as the False Grape or Wild Grape, is a species of plant native to tropical and subtropical regions of Africa. Propagation of this plant can be done through various methods such as cuttings, layering, and seeds.
Cuttings
Cuttings is one of the easiest and quickest ways to propagate Cissus neghelliensis Lanza. You can take a cutting from the tip of the stem or a matured part with several leaves. After obtaining the cutting, remove the lower leaves, and treat the cut end with rooting hormone powder to promote root growth. Plant the cutting in a well-draining soil mix, keep it moist and place it in a shaded area until new growth emerges.
Layering
Layering is another propagation method that can be used to propagate Cissus neghelliensis Lanza. This method involves bending a low-lying stem of the plant down to the ground and burying it with soil, leaving a small portion of the tip exposed. Over time, new roots will develop from the buried stem and provide a new plant for you to separate from the parent plant.
Seeds
Propagation by seeds requires patience, as germination may take several weeks. Collect matured and viable seeds from the parent plant and soak them in water for a few hours before planting them in a well-draining soil mix. Keep the soil moist, and place the container in a warm, shaded location. The seeds will germinate within a few weeks, and once they produce true leaves, they can be transplanted into their permanent pots or garden bed.
Disease Management:
Cissus neghelliensis Lanza is a relatively healthy plant and can withstand pests and diseases to a certain extent. However, like every other plant, it can be vulnerable to infections. Fungal diseases like Botrytis and powdery mildew can be a common problem, especially in conditions where the plant receives an inadequate amount of sunlight and poor air circulation. To manage diseases, it is essential to keep the plant clean, dry, and well-aerated. Prune infected parts of the plant as soon as they appear. Applying fungicides once a week can also be beneficial.
Pest Management:
The common pests that can attack Cissus neghelliensis Lanza include spider mites, mealybugs, thrips, and scale insects. Spider mites and mealybugs are the most common pests that affect this plant. Spider mites are tiny pests that can cause significant damage to the plant by sucking the sap of the leaves, making them appear dry and yellow. Mealybugs, on the other hand, create a white powdery coating on leaves and stems, and they also suck sap from the plant parts.
To manage pests, inspect your plant regularly, and isolate it immediately on noticing any pest infestation. You can remove pests by manually wiping the plant with a solution of warm water and mild soap. Neem oil and insecticidal soap also work well as pest control measures. Another effective way to manage pests is by using biological control agents like ladybugs or lacewings, which feed on spider mites and mealybugs.
