Consulta Plantas

Care of the climbing plant Cissus antarctica or Kangaroo vine

The genus Cissus, family Vitaceae, includes more than 300 species of shrubs and climbing plants native to tropical regions of Africa, Asia, Australia, New Guinea and America. Some species are: Cissus antarctica, Cissus rhombifolia, Cissus discolor, Cissus sicyoides, Cissus striata.

Common name: Kangaroo vine. This species is native to Australia.

They are climbing plants with fine hairy stems that reach 3 meters (9.84 feet) in length. They have attractive oval, pointed, glossy green leaves with serrated margins. The flowers are very small and have no ornamental interest. They produce spherical blue-black fruits.

These fast-growing plants are used as houseplants, in staked pots as climbers, or in hanging pots. In regions with a tropical and subtropical climate, they are used to cover slopes, walls, fences and pergolas.

Cissus antarctica can grow in bright exposure but without direct sun or in light shade. The winter temperature should not be less than 10 ºC (50 ºF); a period of rest at 12-15 ºC (54-59 ºF) is advisable. They do not like excessive heat (Mediterranean summer) or poor ventilation.

The soil can be a mixture of 60% houseplant substrate, 30% leaf mulch, and 10% siliceous sand.

Water frequently, with lime-free water, in spring and summer, waiting for the substrate to be dry; they resist drought only 2-3 days. In winter reduce the risks a lot. It's important to spray the leaves frequently in summer; They need medium-high humidity.

Fertilize in spring and summer with a mineral houseplant fertilizer every 20 days.

Prune lightly in late summer to control growth and keep it compact. If the plant loses the leaves at the base, it must be pruned intensely.

If the humidity is low, they can be attacked by aphids and mites.

They propagate by cuttings in early spring or late summer. Root in sandy substrate and under glass at 18-20 ºC (64-68 ºF).

Images of the climbing plant Cissus antarctica or Kangaroo vine