Consulta Plantas

Care of the climbing plant Cissus rhombifolia or Grape Ivy

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 rhombifolia, Cissus discolor, Cissus antarctica, Cissus sicyoides, Cissus striata.

Common names: Grape Ivy, Venezuela treebine, Oak-leaf ivy, Cissus alata. This species is native to South America.

They are hanging or climbing shrubs that have elegant rhombus-shaped leaves (made up of 3 leaflets) and a shiny dark green color. They don't usually bloom; the flowers have no ornamental interest.

They are used as indoor plants in hanging pots or as climbing plants with the help of tutors. In tropical and subtropical climates they are very suitable to cover undergrowth or shady areas of the garden.

Cissus rhombifolia prefers a bright exposure without direct sun and a cool temperature. Excessive heat causes the tips of the leaves to turn brown. The winter temperature should not be less than 5 ºC (41 ºF).

The soil can be a substrate for houseplants with a little siliceous sand. The pot transplant is done in early spring.

Water regularly, with lime-free water, in spring and summer so that the soil is always moist (never overwater); they do not tolerate drought. Spray the leaves from time to time especially in summer.

Fertilize in spring and summer every 15 days with mineral fertilizer for indoor plants and with compost in late winter.

Prune lightly in late winter to remove dry branches, control growth and maintain a compact appearance.

They are quite resistant plants that can be attacked by aphids and mealybugs, especially in regions with a Mediterranean climate.

They propagate by cuttings placed to root in a mixture of peat and sand in spring or summer at 20 ºC (68 ºF).

Images of the climbing plant Cissus rhombifolia or Grape Ivy