Overview
Cissus quadrangularis, also known as veldt grape or devil's backbone, is a succulent plant from the grape family that is native to India, Sri Lanka, and Southeast Asia. This plant is widely used in traditional medicine and has various medicinal properties.
Appearance
Cissus quadrangularis is a climbing plant that can grow up to 1.5 meters in height. It has square-shaped stems with four angles that give it the nickname "devil's backbone". The stems are thick, succulent, and have a greenish-grey color. The plant has small greenish-yellow flowers that produce yellowish-orange berries.
Uses
Cissus quadrangularis has several traditional medicinal applications. In India and Africa, it is used to treat various ailments such as hemorrhoids, bone fractures, dysentery, and tuberculosis. It is also used to improve bone health and to relieve joint pain. The plant is rich in vitamin C, carotene, and antioxidants, which make it useful in boosting the immune system and promoting overall wellbeing.
Cissus quadrangularis is also used in sports medicine as it is believed to have anti-inflammatory properties that can help to reduce swelling, pain, and speed up the healing process. It is used by athletes to relieve joint and bone pain that may result from intense physical activity.
The plant's stems and leaves are used to make herbal teas, extracts, and powders, which are used in traditional medicine. Cissus quadrangularis is also used as an ornamental plant due to its unique and attractive appearance.
In recent years, Cissus quadrangularis has gained attention as a dietary supplement for weight loss and bodybuilding. The plant is believed to have properties that can help to improve metabolism, burn fat, and increase muscle mass. However, the efficacy of Cissus quadrangularis as a dietary supplement is still under investigation.
Light Requirements
Cissus quadrangularis auct. commonly known as the Veldt Grape or Devil's backbone prefers full sun to partial shade. It requires at least six hours of direct or indirect sunlight every day. Insufficient sunlight could hinder its growth and cause the plant to lose leaves rapidly.
Temperature Requirements
The plant requires a warm, humid, and subtropical climate to thrive. The optimal temperature range is between 20°C to 30°C (68°F to 86°F). Temperatures below 15°C (59°F) or above 35°C (95°F) could cause damage and hinder growth.
Soil Requirements
Cissus quadrangularis auct. requires well-draining soils, rich in organic matter. The ideal pH range for the plant is 6.0 to 7.5. It is adaptable to various soil types, including sand, loam, or clay.
Adding compost or other organic matter to the soil mix before planting can improve drainage, moisture retention, and nutrient availability to the plant. The plant prefers to grow in soil that is slightly moist at all times but not waterlogged.
Cultivation
Cissus quadrangularis, also known as Veldt grape, is a succulent plant that grows well in warm, arid climates. It can be propagated from stem cuttings, which should be taken from the plant's new growth in the spring or summer.
When planting Cissus quadrangularis, select a well-draining soil, and ensure that the pot has adequate drainage holes. The plant prefers full sun but can also grow in partial shade. It's recommended to keep the plant indoors during colder months.
Cissus quadrangularis is a slow grower, so it's essential to be patient with the plant. If given proper care, the plant can live for up to 20 years.
Watering
Veldt grape prefers infrequent watering. Allow the soil to dry out between watering to avoid root rot. During the plant's growing season (spring and summer), water once a week, reducing to twice a month in the dormant season (fall and winter).
The plant is sensitive to overwatering, so it's essential to avoid waterlogging the soil. However, it's equally important to ensure the soil never dries out completely.
Fertilization
Cissus quadrangularis requires few nutrients, and over-fertilization can harm the plant. Fertilize the plant with a balanced liquid fertilizer at half strength once a month during the growing season. Avoid fertilizing during the dormant season.
Pruning
Cissus quadrangularis is a slow grower and rarely requires pruning. However, pruning can help maintain the plant's shape and prevent it from becoming too leggy.
If pruning is necessary, do it during the plant's dormant season in the fall or winter. Limit pruning to the removal of dead or damaged stems and leaves. Avoid cutting back too severely as this can harm the plant.
Propagation of Cissus Quadrangularis Auct.
Cissus quadrangularis is a succulent vine that is propagated through stem cuttings. The plant can also be propagated through seeds, but this method is not commonly used as it can result in variations in the characteristics of the plant. Stem cuttings are a reliable and efficient way of propagating Cissus quadrangularis and can result in identical plants.
Preparing the Stem Cuttings
To propagate Cissus quadrangularis through stem cuttings, select a healthy stem that is at least 5 inches long and has a diameter of about ? inch. Remove the leaves and lateral branches from the bottom 2 inches of the stem to create a cutting that is 3 inches long.
Rooting the Stem Cuttings
Once the cuttings are prepared, they should be dipped in rooting hormone powder to encourage root development. Then, plant the cuttings in a well-draining potting mix, and cover the pot with a clear plastic bag to create a humid environment. Place the pot in a warm and brightly lit area, but avoid direct sunlight. Keep the soil moist but not waterlogged, and mist the cuttings regularly to maintain moisture levels.
Transplanting the Cuttings
After about 4 weeks, the cuttings should begin to form roots and new growth. At this stage, the plastic bag can be removed, and the plant can be gradually acclimated to more light and less humidity. Once the plant has developed a good root system and a few sets of leaves, it can be transplanted to a larger container or planted directly in the ground if the climate is suitable. Cissus quadrangularis should be kept in a warm and sunny location and watered regularly, but not overwatered.
Disease and Pest Management for Cissus quadrangularis
Cissus quadrangularis is a resilient plant that is relatively disease and pest resistant. However, there are still a few pests and diseases that may affect this plant. Below are some common diseases and pests that may affect Cissus quadrangularis, as well as the methods of managing them.
Diseases
1. Leaf spot: Leaf spot is a fungal disease that causes circular gray or brown spots with a dark edge on the leaves. To prevent leaf spot, ensure the plant is well-ventilated and minimize overhead watering. Applying copper-based fungicides can be effective in controlling leaf spot.
2. Powdery mildew: Powdery mildew causes a white powdery growth on the leaves that can spread to other parts of the plant. This fungal disease thrives in humid conditions. To control powdery mildew, keep the plant in a well-ventilated area and reduce humidity levels by increasing the distance between plants. Applying fungicides that contain neem oil or potassium bicarbonate can also be helpful to prevent powdery mildew.
Pests
1. Spider mites: Spider mites are tiny pests that feed on the sap of the plant, causing yellowing and wilting of the leaves. To control spider mites, blast the plant with water to dislodge them or spray the plant with insecticidal soap, neem oil, or pyrethrin-based insecticides. Consistently monitoring the plant for spider mites and taking action at the first sign of infestation is critical.
2. Mealybugs: Mealybugs are pests that appear as white, cottony masses on the plant. They feed on the sap and excrete a honeydew substance that attracts ants and encourages fungal growth. To control mealybugs, remove the infected parts of the plant and apply insecticidal soap or neem oil on the remaining plant.
By following the above measures and practicing good plant hygiene, Cissus quadrangularis can thrive and remain healthy. Remember that early pest and disease detection is crucial to effectively manage any issues that may arise.
