Scientific Name
Cissus quadrangularis L.
Common Name(s)
Veld Grape, Veldt Grape, Devil's Backbone, Adamant Creeper, Edible Stemmed Vine, Grape Leaf
Synonym(s)
Cissus bifida, Cissus edulis, Cissus quadrangula, Cissus quadrangulus, Cissus tetraptera, Cissus triandra, Saelanthus quadragonus, Vitis quadrangularis, Vitis succulenta
Scientific Classification
Family: Vitaceae
Genus: Cissus
Description
Cissus quadrangularis is a fast-growing succulent vine with fleshy quadrangular branches and toothed trilobed leaves that appear at the nodes. The stems are constricted at nodes, glabrous or slightly downy, with angles winged and almost leafless when old. They grow up to 5 feet (1.5 m) long. Leaves are up to 2 inches (5 cm) long and usually as wide as long. Each has a tendril emerging from the opposite side of the node. Mature plants produce racemes of very small yellowish-green flowers followed by small inedible fruits which ripen to red coloration.
Hardiness
USDA hardiness zone 11a to 11b: from 40 °F (+4.4 °C) to 45 °F (+7.2 °C).
How to Grow and Care
Veld Grape is fast-growing and easy to grow. While most people who grow this plant are drawn to the curious geometric shapes of its stems, established plants make attractive, low-maintenance house plants. Plants probably show best with their stems cascading from hanging baskets or when trained to grow on a trellis or similar support.
This plant responds very well to basic guidelines on growing succulents. It benefits from being moved outdoors in summer to experience warmer temperatures and increased daylight. Veld Grape will produce remarkable growth under warm temperatures, bright sunlight, evenly moist soils, and occasional fertilization.
Once it has reached its desired size, Veld Grape can be maintained by pruning off any unwanted growth. In addition, pruning will encourage the production of numerous side branches, which will give this plant a fuller, more lush appearance.
See more at How to Grow and Care for a Veld Grape (Cissus quadrangularis).
Origin
This species is probably native to Bangladesh, India, or Sri Lanka but is also found in Africa, Arabia, and Southeast Asia.
Links
- Back to genus Cissus
- Succupedia: Browse succulents by Scientific Name, Common Name, Genus, Family, USDA Hardiness Zone, Origin, or cacti by Genus
Photo Gallery
Advertisements