Overview
Cissus oreophila Gilg & M.Brandt is a species of flowering plant in the grape family, Vitaceae. It is native to Tanzania, where it grows at high elevations in the Uluguru Mountains.
Common names
Cissus oreophila is commonly known as Uluguru Mountain Grape or Uluguru Climber due to the fact that it grows in the Uluguru Mountains and is a climbing plant.
Appearance
Cissus oreophila is a climbing plant with woody, twisting stems that can reach up to 15m in length. The leaves are elliptic to oval and are up to 20cm long and 10cm wide. They are green on the upper side and paler on the underside. The flowers are small and inconspicuous and are followed by small, rounded black fruits.
Uses
Cissus oreophila is used in traditional medicine in Tanzania to treat various ailments. The plant contains compounds with anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties. It is also used as a food source by local communities, who eat the leaves and fruits.
In addition, Cissus oreophila is sometimes grown as an ornamental plant due to its attractive foliage and climbing habit. However, it is relatively uncommon in cultivation compared to some other species of Cissus.
Growth Conditions of Cissus oreophila Gilg & M.Brandt
Cissus oreophila Gilg & M.Brandt, commonly known as the mountain grapevine, is a slow-growing, evergreen plant that requires specific growth conditions to thrive. Below are the optimal conditions for the growth of Cissus oreophila Gilg & M.Brandt.
Light Requirements
Cissus oreophila Gilg & M.Brandt prefers bright, indirect sunlight. Direct sunlight can scorch the leaves, leading to damage and poor growth. Placement of the plant near a bright east or west-facing window is optimal for growth. If direct sunlight cannot be avoided, use a sheer curtain to filter the harsh rays.
Temperature Requirements
Cissus oreophila Gilg & M.Brandt requires a moderate to warm temperature range to grow properly. Temperatures between 18°C and 25°C are ideal. The plant can tolerate a few degrees below this range, but anything lower will cause damage to the leaves and stunt growth. Avoid exposing the plant to drafts or sudden temperature changes, as this can also cause damage and affect the growth.
Soil Requirements
The mountain grapevine plant prefers well-draining, nutrient-rich soil. A mixture of peat, bark, perlite, and sand in equal parts is vital for optimal growth. The soil should be mildly acidic, with a pH range of 5.5 to 6.5. Ensure that the plant's container has drainage holes to prevent waterlogging of the soil.
Watering Requirements
Mountain grapevine is a drought-tolerant plant and requires watering once a week when the soil's top inch is dry. Avoid overwatering, as the plant does not like to sit in standing water, leading to root rot. The leaves can also develop yellow spots due to overwatering, leading to further growth problems.
Fertilizer Requirements
Apply a balanced, slow-release fertilizer during the growing season of spring and summer. Dilute the fertilizer to half strength and apply it every four to six weeks. Avoid fertilizing during winter when the plant is dormant.
Cultivation of Cissus oreophila Gilg & M.Brandt
Cissus oreophila Gilg & M.Brandt requires well-draining soil and good airflow to flourish. The plant requires abundant indirect sunlight and shade during hot afternoons.
It thrives in a temperature range of 10-32 degrees Celsius and can tolerate occasional temperature drops down to 5 degrees Celsius. It can also tolerate moderate levels of humidity, making it a perfect indoor plant.
Watering Needs of Cissus oreophila Gilg & M.Brandt
The soil must always be moist, although not waterlogged. Watering should be done when the topsoil is dry to touch. During the warmer months, the plant may require watering every other day. However, during winter, watering should be done once a week.
It is advisable to use room temperature water to avoid shocking the roots and causing them to rot.
Fertilization of Cissus oreophila Gilg & M.Brandt
Fertilization should be done during the growing season, which is from spring to summer. A balanced liquid fertilizer is ideal, and it should be applied every two weeks.
The dose should be in line with the manufacturer's instruction to avoid over-fertilizing. Over-fertilizing can burn the leaves, causing them to fall off.
Pruning Cissus oreophila Gilg & M.Brandt
Pruning should be done during the growing season, and the cuttings can be used to propagate new plants. The plant is known for its quick growth, and pruning helps to control its spread.
Regular pruning encourages branching, which leads to lusher foliage. The plant can be trained to wrap around poles and trellises, and pruning helps to shape it into the desired form.
Propagation of Cissus Oreophila Gilg & M.Brandt
Cissus oreophila Gilg & M.Brandt, commonly known as mountain grape or rock grapes, is a species of flowering plant in the grape family (Vitaceae). This plant is native to Tanzania and grows at high altitudes of up to 2500 meters above sea level.
Propagation Methods
Cissus oreophila can be propagated through various methods that include:
1. Stem Cuttings
Stem cuttings are the easiest method to propagate Cissus oreophila. Cuttings should be taken in the spring or early summer. Cut a 6-inch long stem that has at least one node. Remove the bottom leaves and dip the stem in rooting hormone. Plant the stem cutting in a pot filled with a well-draining soil mix. Water it thoroughly and place it in a warm, bright location away from direct sunlight. Keep the soil moist until roots form in six to eight weeks.
2. Air Layering
Air layering is another technique that can be used for propagating Cissus oreophila. This method is best done in the spring or early summer. Cut a 1-inch thick branch and remove the bark from a 2-inch section of the branch. Apply rooting hormone to the area and wrap it in moist sphagnum moss. Cover the moss with plastic wrap and secure it with twine. Roots will form in the moss in four to six weeks. Cut the rooted section from the mother plant and plant it in potting soil.
3. Seed
Cissus oreophila can be grown from seed. Collect ripe fruit in the fall and remove the seed. Wash the seed and let it dry for a couple of days. Sow the seeds in a pot with a well-draining soil mix. Water it and place it in a bright location away from direct sunlight. Keep the soil moist until germination, which can take up to six weeks.
Propagation of Cissus oreophila through stem cuttings and air layering has a higher success rate compared to growing from seed. Following the right propagation method helps in obtaining healthier and more robust plants.
Disease and Pest Management for Cissus Oreophila
Cissus oreophila is a robust plant species that thrives in its native environment with minimal human intervention. However, when grown in artificial conditions, numerous pests and diseases may affect the plant's overall health. Here are some common diseases and pests that may affect the Cissus oreophila plant and how to manage them.
Diseases
Powdery mildew: Powdery mildew is one of the most common diseases that affect Cissus oreophila. It appears as a white powdery substance on the leaves caused by fungal attacks. In severe cases, it can cause leaf drop and reduce the plant's overall health. To ward off the disease, ensure proper air circulation around the plant, avoid overhead irrigation, and dispose of infected plant parts properly.
Leaf spot: Leaf spot is also caused by a fungal attack, and it manifests as brown or dark spots on the leaves. It mostly affects the older leaves of the plant, causing them to become yellow and drop prematurely. Leaf spot disease can be controlled by picking off affected leaves, ensuring proper air circulation, and avoiding overwatering the plant.
Pests
Scale insects: Scale insects are the most common pests that affect Cissus oreophila. They look like tiny brown or black bumps on the stems and under the leaves. These insects suck the plant's sap, causing the plant to lose vigor and eventually die. To control scale insects, prune off heavily infested areas and apply insecticidal soap or neem oil to kill the remaining pests.
Mites: Mites are tiny spider-like pests that feed on the sap of Cissus oreophila, causing leaves to become silvery or bronze in color. These pests can be controlled by spraying the plant with insecticidal soap or neem oil.
Aphids: Aphids are tiny, pear-shaped insects that suck sap from the plant, causing leaves to curl and distorting plant growth. They secrete sticky residue called honeydew that attracts mold-like fungi. To control aphids, spray the plant with an insecticidal soap or neem oil and prune off heavily infested areas.
Overall, preventing the pests and diseases from affecting Cissus oreophila requires maintaining proper growing conditions and proper plant hygiene practices. It is crucial to provide the plant with well-draining soil, avoid watering the plant excessively, and keep it in an area with adequate air circulation.
