Overview
Cissus palmatifida (Baker) Planch. is a unique and beautiful plant belonging to the grape family, Vitaceae. It is a perennial vine that is native to tropical Africa, particularly in the countries of Cameroon, Congo, Gabon, and Angola.
Common Names
The plant has several common names including "Water Yam Leaf Cissus," "Split Leaf Cissus," "Grape Ivy," and "Horsehead Philodendron."
General Appearance
Cissus palmatifida has unique and eye-catching foliage. The plant has succulent, palmate, and deeply divided leaves that are about 3-lobed. The leaves have a glossy and leathery texture that makes them attractive. The leaves can grow up to 10 inches long and 7 inches wide. The plant also has wiry, twining stems that can climb up to 10 feet or more.
Uses
Cissus palmatifida is a popular ornamental plant that is grown in gardens, patios, and indoors. The plant is commonly grown as a houseplant because it can purify the air and add a touch of green to any room. The plant is also used in traditional medicine to treat various ailments such as gastric ulcers, inflammation, and infectious diseases.
Growth Conditions for Cissus Palmatifida (Baker) Planch
Cissus palmatifida (Baker) Planch is an evergreen, climbing vine that belongs to the Vitaceae family. It is a fast-growing plant that can climb up to 10 meters tall and is native to Madagascar.
Light Requirements
Cissus palmatifida grows best in bright, indirect sunlight. Direct sunlight can burn the leaves, so it is best to protect the plant with a layer of shade cloth or by placing it in a spot that receives filtered light. Growing the plant in bright light will result in faster growth and more vibrant leaves.
Temperature Requirements
Cissus palmatifida prefers warm temperatures ranging from 15°C to 35°C. Temperatures below 15°C can cause the plant to go dormant, while temperatures above 35°C can cause the leaves to wilt. It is best to keep the plant in a room that maintains a temperature between 18°C to 26°C.
Soil Requirements
Cissus palmatifida thrives in well-draining soil that is rich in organic matter. The soil should be slightly acidic, with a pH level between 5.5 to 6.5. The plant does not tolerate standing water, so it is important to make sure the soil drains well. A soil mixture consisting of two parts peat moss, two parts coarse sand, and one part perlite or vermiculite is ideal for growing Cissus palmatifida.
Cultivation Methods for Cissus Palmatifida (Baker) Planch.
Cissus palmatifida (Baker) Planch. is a climbing plant that requires support to climb. The best way to grow Cissus palmatifida is to provide it with a trellis or a moss pole to climb on. The plant prefers a bright but indirect light and produces tender green leaves that are prone to sunburn.
The ideal temperature for growing Cissus palmatifida is between 18°C to 25°C. Cold or hot temperatures can stress the plant and lead to plant death. Cissus palmatifida can tolerate a wide range of humidity, but prefers a moderate level of humidity between 50% to 70% relative humidity.
Watering Needs of Cissus Palmatifida (Baker) Planch.
Cissus palmatifida requires moderate watering. The soil should be moist but not waterlogged. Overwatering can lead to root rot, which can eventually kill the plant.
It is best to water Cissus palmatifida once a week during its active growth period. During the dormant season, the frequency of watering can be reduced to once every two weeks. Before watering the plant, it is important to ensure that the top layer of soil is dry. If the soil is wet, delaying watering is recommended.
Fertilization for Cissus Palmatifida (Baker) Planch.
Cissus palmatifida requires frequent fertilization during its active growth period. It is recommended to use a balanced fertilizer with a 20-20-20 NPK ratio. Fertilizing should be done every two weeks during the active growth phase.
During the dormant phase, fertilization should be reduced to once a month. It is important to note that over-fertilization can lead to excess salts in the soil which can damage the roots and leaves of the plant.
Pruning Cissus Palmatifida (Baker) Planch.
Cissus palmatifida requires regular pruning to keep its shape and promote healthy growth. It is essential to prune the plant during its active growth period to boost its growth and productivity.
The dead or yellowing leaves should be removed from the plant to prevent the spread of diseases. The long, hanging stems should be pruned to promote bushy growth. When pruning the plant, it is important to use sharp and sterilized pruning shears to avoid injuring the plant.
Propagation of Cissus palmatifida (Baker) Planch.
Cissus palmatifida (Baker) Planch. can be propagated through various methods. The most commonly used propagation techniques for this plant include stem cuttings and layering.
Stem Cuttings
Stem cuttings are the most commonly used method for propagating Cissus palmatifida (Baker) Planch. They can be taken from both woody and softwood stems, but it is easier to root cuttings taken from softer stems. Generally, cuttings taken from the top of the plant tend to root more easily.
Before taking the cutting, make sure the plant is healthy and free from any diseases. Using a sharp and sterile tool, cut a 4-6 inch long stem from the plant. Remove the leaves from the lower half of the stem and dip the cut end into rooting hormone powder. Plant the cutting into a well-draining potting mix, water thoroughly and cover with a plastic bag to retain moisture. The cutting should root in around 4-6 weeks.
Layering
Cissus palmatifida (Baker) Planch. can also be propagated through layering. This method involves creating a new plant from an existing stem while it is still attached to the plant.
Choose a low-lying stem and make a small incision on the underside where it touches the soil. Gently pull the stem downwards and pin it to the soil using a bent wire. Make sure the incision is in contact with the soil. Cover the stem with soil, water it well and wait for it to root. Once roots have developed, cut the stem from the parent plant and transfer the new plant to a separate container.
Propagation of Cissus palmatifida (Baker) Planch. through stem cuttings and layering is easy and effective. With proper care, the resulting plants can grow into healthy and beautiful specimens.
Disease Management
Cissus palmatifida (Baker) Planch. is susceptible to a few diseases that can affect its growth and the overall health of the plant. Some of the common diseases that might affect the plant are:
- Leaf spot: A fungal disease that causes brown spots on the leaves. The infected leaves may eventually drop from the plant.
- Grey mold: It is a fungal disease that causes the leaves to turn brown and wilt. The affected leaves may also develop a fuzzy gray mold.
- Root rot: It is a disease caused by fungal pathogens that can lead to the death of the plant. Infected roots become brown and mushy, and the plant may wilt and die.
To manage these diseases, it is important to maintain good plant hygiene. Remove any infected plant parts immediately and dispose of them properly. Also, avoid overwatering and maintain proper drainage to prevent root rot. Use fungicides as directed by the instructions to control fungal diseases.
Pest Management
Cissus palmatifida (Baker) Planch. is generally resistant to pests. However, some pests might still attack the plant. Some of the common ones are:
- Mealybugs: Small, white insects that suck the sap from the plant. They can cause stunted growth and leaf drop.
- Spider mites: Tiny, reddish-brown insects that spin webbing on the leaves. They can cause yellowing and wilting of the leaves.
- Scale insects: Small, flat insects that attach themselves to the plant and suck sap. They can cause yellowing of the leaves and stunted growth.
To manage these pests, it is important to monitor the plant regularly. Use insecticidal soap or neem oil as directed to control pests. Remove any heavily infested plant parts immediately and dispose of them properly.
