Overview
Cyphostemma kiwakishiense (Dewit) Desc. is a species of succulent plant known for its remarkable and unusual appearance. It is native to Namibia and South Africa. The plant is commonly referred to by its scientific name but occasionally called the Namibian grape.
Description
C. kiwakishiense is a climbing succulent that can reach up to five meters in length. The plant's stem is thick, smooth, and green. The unique feature of C. kiwakishiense is its peculiar corky bark that peels off in thin scales revealing a reddish-brown layer underneath. The plant's leaves are deciduous, succulent, and circular, measuring approximately 8 centimeters in diameter. It usually flowers between July and September. The flowers are cream-colored, small, and inconspicuous.
Uses
C. kiwakishiense is commonly grown as an ornamental plant in gardens and greenhouses worldwide. Its unusual appearance and unique, corky bark make it a popular choice for comical and whimsical landscaping. The plant's young leaves and stems are sometimes eaten by the local communities in its native regions.
The plant is traditionally used for medicinal purposes, primarily to treat fever, coughs, and other respiratory ailments. The roots and bark are boiled, and the resulting decoction is consumed orally.
The plant is also used in traditional African cultures as a rainmaker. The leaves are crushed and mixed with water, and the liquid is sprinkled around the perimeter of the village to elicit rainfall.
Light Requirements
Cyphostemma kiwakishiense requires bright light for healthy growth. Place the plant in a location that receives indirect sunlight for at least six hours a day. Avoid placing the plant in direct sunlight for an extended period, as it may cause leaf burn.
Temperature Requirements
The plant thrives in warm temperatures ranging from 18°C to 28°C (64°F to 82°F). Ensure that the plant is placed in a location where the temperature is consistent and doesn't fluctuate significantly. The plant may struggle to grow during the colder months; it is best to keep it in a well-insulated room with constant warmth.
Soil Requirements
The soil used to grow Cyphostemma kiwakishiense needs to be well-draining, rich in nutrients, and aerated. A mixture of sandy and loamy soil works well, as it provides proper drainage while retaining enough moisture to keep the plant healthy. Adding compost or other organic matter to the soil can also help improve the soil quality. It is essential to ensure that the pot has a drainage hole at its bottom and to avoid overwatering the plant.
Cultivation
Cyphostemma kiwakishiense is a shrub that grows well in hot and dry environments. It is important to plant it in a well-drained soil with a pH range of 6.5 to 7.5. The ideal soil should be rich in organic matter and porous to ensure proper drainage and to avoid waterlogging. The plant requires full sun exposure to thrive and should be protected from frost and extreme temperatures.
The ideal planting time is during the early spring season when the temperature is warm and the soil is moist. Cyphostemma kiwakishiense requires enough space to spread its roots, and it's advisable to plant the shrub 5 to 6 meters apart.
Watering Needs
Cyphostemma kiwakishiense is drought tolerant and requires minimal watering. Watering should be done only when the soil is dry to the touch to prevent waterlogging, which can lead to root rot. During the first year of planting, the shrub requires frequent watering to establish its roots, after which it can be left to thrive on its own.
Fertilization
Cyphostemma kiwakishiense requires regular fertilization to grow optimally. It's advisable to use a NPK fertilizer with a ratio of 10:10:10 during the growing season. Fertilizer application should be done every two weeks for the first year of planting and then reduced subsequently unless the plant displays nutrition deficiencies.
Pruning
Cyphostemma kiwakishiense requires minimal pruning, and it's advisable to only trim back the dead or diseased branches. Pruning should be done during the dormant season, i.e., late winter or early spring. It is also important to maintain good air circulation around the shrub to prevent the spread of disease.
Propagation of Cyphostemma kiwakishiense (Dewit) Desc.
Cyphostemma kiwakishiense is a rare succulent plant that is native to Zambia. It is a slow-growing plant that is difficult to propagate, but there are a few methods that can be used to propagate this plant.
Propagation by Seeds
One of the easiest methods of propagating Cyphostemma kiwakishiense is by using seeds. The seeds should be collected when the fruit is ripe and allowed to dry out. Once the seeds are dry, they can be sown in a well-draining soil mix and covered with a thin layer of sand. The seeds should be kept moist and placed in a warm sunny location. Germination can take anywhere from several weeks to several months.
Propagation by Stem Cuttings
Another method of propagating Cyphostemma kiwakishiense is by using stem cuttings. This method can be a bit tricky as the plant is slow-growing and does not produce many offsets. The stem cuttings should be taken from healthy plants and allowed to callus over for a few days. Once the stem has callused, it can be planted in a well-draining soil mix and placed in a warm and sunny location. The stem should be kept moist until roots begin to form.
Propagation by Division
Cyphostemma kiwakishiense can also be propagated by division but it is not a recommended method as the plant does not produce many offsets. To propagate by division, the plant should be carefully removed from its pot and the roots should be gently separated into smaller clumps. Each clump can be planted in a well-draining soil mix and placed in a warm and sunny location. The soil should be kept moist until the plant becomes established.
Disease Management
Cyphostemma kiwakishiense is generally resistant to diseases. However, certain environmental factors such as excessive moisture can make the plant susceptible to fungal diseases such as powdery mildew and leaf spot. To prevent these diseases, it is advisable to maintain good air circulation around the plant and avoid watering the leaves. In case of disease occurrence, remove the affected parts and apply an appropriate fungicide.
Pest Management
The plant is also relatively resistant to pests. However, some common pests such as mealybugs and spider mites can attack the plant leading to wilting and stunted growth. To control these pests, remove the affected parts of the plant and spray with insecticides. Alternatively, you can use biological control methods such as introducing predators like ladybirds into the growing area to feed on the pests.
