Plant Description
Cissus nigropilosa Dewit is an ornamental plant that belongs to the family Vitaceae. It is a climbing plant that can grow up to 3 to 4 meters tall. The leaves are ovate to lanceolate, measuring approximately 10 to 15 cm long and 5 to 9 cm wide. The plant has slightly woody stems and tiny tendrils that it uses to attach itself to its support and climb upwards.
Plant Origin and Common Names
Cissus nigropilosa Dewit originates from West and Central Africa and is commonly known as the Kenyan creeper. It is also called the grape ivy due to its close resemblance to vines from the grape family. The plant is highly popular for its architectural beauty that it adds to indoor spaces, and its leaves that vary in shape, size, and color.
Plant Uses
The Cissus nigropilosa Dewit is a popular houseplant and is easy to grow. It prefers indirect light, and its water requirements are moderate. The plant is known for its air-purifying properties, and it helps to remove harmful toxins from the air. The leaves of the plant are known for their medicinal purposes and are used to treat health conditions such as abnormal uterine bleeding, ulcers, sore throat, and hemorrhoids.
General Appearance
Cissus nigropilosa Dewit has a lush green appearance, and its leaves are a beautiful combination of green and maroon. The deep maroon pigments on the underside of the leaves stand out against its green tops, making it a gorgeous display plant. As it grows, the plant forms a thick foliage cover that can provide a sense of privacy, making it a great plant for office spaces, living rooms, and balconies.
Light Requirements
Cissus nigropilosa Dewit is known to thrive in bright, indirect light. Thus, it is best to place this plant near a window that receives a lot of natural light. However, it should be shielded from direct sunlight as it can scorch the leaves.
Temperature Range
The ideal temperature range for Cissus nigropilosa Dewit to grow is between 60°F and 75°F. It is recommended to keep the plant away from drafts and extreme temperature changes to prevent stress or damage.
Humidity Requirements
Cissus nigropilosa Dewit prefers a higher humidity of around 60-80%. To achieve this level of moisture, you can use a humidifier or place a tray of water near the plant to improve the air quality around the plant.
Soil Requirements
The soil for Cissus nigropilosa Dewit should be moist and well-draining. A soil mixture that incorporates perlite or sand can help to improve drainage. The ideal pH range is between 5.6 to 7.4.
Fertilizer
To promote healthy growth and to ensure that the plant has all the required nutrients, it is advisable to feed it with balanced fertilizer every two weeks during the growing season. Reduce frequency in winter when it enters a state of dormancy.
Watering Requirements
Cissus nigropilosa Dewit likes its soil consistently moist but not soggy. Therefore, it is necessary to water it regularly. However, take note that it is vulnerable to root rot, so ensure that the pot has drainage holes to help excess water drain out.
Cultivation
Cissus nigropilosa Dewit, also known as "Miniature Grape," is a fast-growing trailing plant that is ideal for hanging baskets, trellises or windowsills. The plant prefers well-draining soil, but will do well in almost any soil as long as it is not waterlogged. It is best planted in a partial shade location with a few hours of direct sunlight each day.
Watering Needs
Cissus nigropilosa Dewit requires regular watering, and the soil should be kept slightly moist, but not waterlogged. Overwatering can lead to root rot and can be fatal to the plant. To check moisture levels, insert a finger into the soil, and water only when the top inch is dry to the touch. During the winter, water less frequently to prevent waterlogging.
Fertilization
Cissus nigropilosa Dewit benefits from regular fertilization during the growing season, typically from the spring through the fall. The best fertilizer is a balanced liquid fertilizer that is diluted to half strength and applied every two weeks. Avoid fertilizing during the winter months when growth slows down.
Pruning
Cissus nigropilosa Dewit requires pruning to maintain a desirable shape and size. Pruning also helps to promote fresh growth and the formation of new shoots. Prune the plant in the early spring when the growing season begins, and remove any dead or damaged stems. Pinching back the tips of stems can also promote bushier growth, but be careful not to over-prune as this can stunt the plant's growth.
Propagation of Cissus Nigropilosa Dewit
Cissus nigropilosa Dewit is a rare and beautiful plant native to Madagascar. Propagation of this plant can be done through different methods, including:
Stem Cuttings
Stem cuttings are the most common way to propagate Cissus nigropilosa Dewit. Cut a 6-inch stem from an adult plant, and remove all the leaves except the top two. Plant the cutting in a pot filled with well-draining soil, then water it lightly. Keep the cutting in a warm and humid place, out of direct sunlight, and water it only when the soil feels partly dry. Within a few weeks, the cutting will start to root, and new leaves will appear.
Leaf Cuttings
Propagation through leaf cuttings is also possible, but less reliable than stem cuttings. Take a mature leaf from the plant and cut it into sections of about 2 inches each. Plant the leaf sections in a pot with well-draining soil and keep them in a warm and humid place, misting the soil occasionally. Keep the soil moist but not too wet. It may take several weeks for new plantlets to grow out of the base of the leaf sections, after which they can be transplanted into individual pots.
Air Layering
Air layering is a more advanced propagation method that involves making a small cut in a branch of an adult plant. Soften the bark around the cut, then insert a small amount of growth hormone into the wound. Wrap the wound tightly with moist sphagnum moss and plastic wrap, then wait for a few weeks for roots to develop. Once roots have grown, cut the branch below the air layer and plant it in a pot with well-draining soil. Keep the soil moist and in a warm, humid area.
Disease and Pest Management for Cissus nigropilosa Dewit
Cissus nigropilosa Dewit is a beautiful and popular plant that is easy to care for. However, like most plants, it is susceptible to diseases and pests, which can damage or even kill the plant if not managed properly. Here are some common diseases and pests that might affect the plant and ways to manage them:
Common Diseases
One of the most common diseases that affect Cissus nigropilosa Dewit is powdery mildew. It is a fungal disease that appears as a white or gray powder on the leaves, stems, and flowers. To manage the disease, ensure that the plant is not overcrowded and has good air circulation. Remove affected leaves and dispose of them immediately. Use a fungicide to treat the plant, following the instructions on the label.
Cissus nigropilosa Dewit is also prone to root rot, which is caused by overwatering. To manage the disease, avoid overwatering the plant and ensure that the soil is well-draining. If the plant is already affected, remove it from the soil and remove any rotten roots. Repot the plant in fresh soil and ensure that you don't overwater it.
Common Pests
The most common insects that attack Cissus nigropilosa Dewit are spider mites, mealybugs, and scale insects. Spider mites and mealybugs are usually found on the undersides of the leaves and cause yellowing, stunted growth, and distorted leaves. Scale insects, on the other hand, appear as small bumps on the stems and leaves.
To manage these pests, regularly inspect your plant for any signs of infestation. You can wipe off mealybugs and scale insects with a cotton swab dipped in alcohol. For spider mites, wash the plant regularly with a hose or use an insecticidal soap or oil to kill them.
Overall, managing diseases and pests in Cissus nigropilosa Dewit requires proper care and regular maintenance. With the right attention, you can keep your plant healthy and beautiful for years to come.
