Origin
Cissus quadrangularis L. var. pubescens Dewit is a succulent plant that belongs to the grape family, Vitaceae. It is native to Africa and grows wild in countries like Uganda, Côte d'Ivoire, and Ghana. The plant is also found in the Indian subcontinent and in Southeast Asia.
Common Names
Cissus quadrangularis L. var. pubescens Dewit has many common names, depending on the region where it is found. In Western and Central African countries, it is known as "bone-setter" or "asthma plant." In India, it is called "hadjod" and "pirandai." In Thailand, it is referred to as "changrup kgaw." These common names reflect some of the plant's medicinal uses.
Uses
Cissus quadrangularis L. var. pubescens Dewit has been used in traditional medicine for centuries. It is believed to have a wide range of therapeutic effects, including anti-inflammatory, analgesic, and bone-healing properties. The plant has been used to treat conditions like joint pain and arthritis, asthma, ulcers, diabetes, and skin diseases. It is also believed to have antibacterial and antifungal properties, making it useful as a topical treatment for wounds and infections.
Cissus quadrangularis L. var. pubescens Dewit has gained popularity as a dietary supplement due to its potential to support bone and joint health. It contains compounds like flavonoids, triterpenoids, and carotenoids that may promote bone formation and reduce bone loss. The plant is often formulated into tablets, capsules, or powders that can be taken orally.
General Appearance
Cissus quadrangularis L. var. pubescens Dewit is a succulent plant that can reach a height of 1-1.5 meters. The stems are four-angled, thick, and fleshy, with rough surfaces and sharp edges. The leaves are ovate or elliptical, up to 6 cm long, and pubescent on both sides. The plant produces small greenish-yellow flowers that grow in clusters. The fruit is a berry that turns red when ripe and contains one or two seeds. The plant grows well in tropical and subtropical climates and is often cultivated for its medicinal and ornamental value.
Light Requirements
Cissus quadrangularis L. var. pubescens Dewit thrives best in areas with bright but indirect sunlight. It prefers to be grown under partial shade or in areas where it can be shielded from direct sunlight. In very hot and sunny areas, it is advisable to grow the plant indoors or under a greenhouse. Avoid growing the plant in areas where there is inadequate lighting as it may lead to stunted growth.
Temperature Requirements
The ideal temperature for growing Cissus quadrangularis L. var. pubescens Dewit is between 65 - 75 °F (18 - 24 °C). Although it can still grow well in colder temperatures, it is susceptible to frostbite and should be protected from frost. During the winter, it is advisable to move the plant indoors or provide artificial heating to maintain the appropriate temperature for the plant's growth.
Soil Requirements
Cissus quadrangularis L. var. pubescens Dewit prefers well-draining soils with a pH range of 6 - 7.5. It grows best in sandy, loamy soils that are enriched with organic matter. The soil should be kept moist but not waterlogged as this may lead to root rot. The plant also benefits from regular fertilization with a balanced fertilizer to improve its growth rate and the overall plant health.
Cultivation
Cissus quadrangularis L. var. pubescens Dewit is a trailing plant that is easy to grow and requires minimal attention. It can be propagated by seeds, stem cuttings, or layering. The best time for propagation is during the spring season.
The plant can grow in a wide range of soils, but it prefers well-draining, sandy soils. It can thrive in both full sunlight and partial shade, but it may require some shade during the hottest months of the year. The ideal temperature range for the cultivation of this plant is 20-30°C.
Watering Needs
The Cissus quadrangularis L. var. pubescens Dewit prefers moderate watering. It thrives in soils that are moist but not waterlogged. The frequency of watering depends on factors such as the soil type, temperature, and humidity. It is best to allow the soil to dry out partially before watering the plant again. During the winter months, the plant requires less water.
Fertilization
The plant can benefit from regular fertilization, particularly during the growing season. A balanced fertilizer can be applied every four to six weeks. Organic fertilizers such as compost or well-rotted manure can also be used. Be careful not to over-fertilize as this can lead to the buildup of salts in the soil.
Pruning
Cissus quadrangularis L. var. pubescens Dewit benefits from regular pruning to keep it in shape and to encourage bushier growth. Pruning can also help to remove dead or diseased branches. The best time for pruning is during the spring season. Use clean, sharp pruning shears to make clean cuts and minimize damage to the plant. It is best to prune back to a node or a lateral shoot.
Propagation of Cissus quadrangularis L. var. pubescens Dewit
Cissus quadrangularis L. var. pubescens Dewit, commonly known as "Veld Grape," is a popular succulent plant that is native to Africa and Asia. The plant is widely cultivated in many parts of the world for its medicinal properties, ornamental value, and potential uses in the food industry. Propagation of this plant can be achieved by different methods, including:
Seed Propagation
Propagation of Cissus quadrangularis L. var. pubescens Dewit through seeds is a simple and straightforward process that involves sowing the seeds in a well-draining soil mix. Before sowing, the seeds should be soaked in water for several hours or overnight to soften the hard seed coat and improve germination rates. The seeds should be sown thinly and covered with a thin layer of soil. The container should be placed in a warm and bright location, and the soil should be kept moist but not waterlogged. Germination usually occurs within two to four weeks, and the seedlings can be transplanted to a larger container or into the ground once they have developed their second set of leaves.
Cuttings Propagation
Propagation of Cissus quadrangularis L. var. pubescens Dewit through stem cuttings is a popular and effective method that involves taking cuttings from the mature plant and rooting them in a well-draining soil mix. The cuttings should be taken from healthy, disease-free stems, and should be around 10-15 centimeters long. The lower leaves should be removed, and the cuttings should be allowed to dry for a few hours before planting. The cuttings can be planted directly in the soil mix or in a container with a rooting hormone. The container should be placed in a bright location, and the soil should be moist but not waterlogged. Rooting usually occurs within three to four weeks, and the new plants can be transplanted to a larger container or into the ground once they have developed a strong root system.
Division Propagation
Propagation of Cissus quadrangularis L. var. pubescens Dewit through division involves separating the mature plant into smaller sections and planting them separately. This method is best suited for mature plants that have become overgrown or are starting to decline in health. The plant should be carefully removed from the soil, and the roots should be gently separated into smaller sections. Each section should have a healthy root system and a few stems with leaves. The sections can be planted directly in the soil mix or in a container with a rooting hormone. The container should be placed in a bright location, and the soil should be moist but not waterlogged. New growth usually occurs within a few weeks, and the new plants can be transplanted to a larger container or into the ground once they have become established.
Disease Management
Cissus quadrangularis L. var. pubescens Dewit is susceptible to several diseases that can affect its growth and development. Here are some of the common diseases and ways to manage them:
- Powdery mildew: This is a fungal disease that causes white powdery spots on the leaves, stems, and flowers. To manage powdery mildew, you can use fungicides, prune infected leaves, and improve air circulation around the plant.
- Anthracnose: It is a fungal disease that causes black spots on the leaves, stems, and flowers of the plant. To manage anthracnose, you can use fungicides and maintain good hygiene around the plant by removing infected plant debris.
- Root rot: This is a fungal disease that causes the roots to rot, leading to wilting and death of the plant. To manage root rot, you can avoid over-watering, improve soil drainage, and use fungicides.
Pest Management
Cissus quadrangularis L. var. pubescens Dewit is also susceptible to insect pests that can cause damage to the plant. Here are some of the common pests and ways to manage them:
- Mealybugs: Mealybugs are small, white, fuzzy insects that suck sap from the plant, causing stunted growth and yellowing of leaves. To manage mealybugs, you can use insecticidal soap, neem oil, or rubbing alcohol to kill them.
- Spider mites: These are tiny pests that spin webs on the undersides of leaves. They suck sap from the plant, causing yellowing and wilting. To manage spider mites, you can spray the plant with water or use insecticidal soap.
- Scale insects: Scale insects are oval-shaped, brownish pests that suck sap from the plant, causing yellowing and wilting of leaves. To manage scale insects, you can use neem oil, rubbing alcohol, or insecticidal soap to kill them.
Regular monitoring of the plant is essential to detect any signs of diseases or pests early. Maintaining good hygiene around the plant, proper watering and fertilization can also help prevent infestations and infections. In severe cases, it may be necessary to consult a professional for proper disease and pest management.
