Winged Grape Ivy
cissus alata
Also known as: ["Winged Ivy","Rivina alata"]
Overview
A vigorous, climbing vine with glossy, lobed leaves and small, inconspicuous flowers followed by bright red berries.
Benefits & Perks
["aesthetic foliage","fast growing","shade tolerant"]
Botanical Classification
| Phylum: | Magnoliophyta |
| Class: | Magnoliopsida |
| Order: | Vitales |
| Family: | Vitaceae |
| Genus: | Cissus |
| Botanical Name: | Cissus alata |
Plant Characteristics
Basic Information
- Category: Leaf Plants
- Suitable Location: indoor hanging basket or trellis support in a bright room
- Suitable For:
- Is Weed: No
- Allergenicity: low
Environmental Needs
- Climate: {"temperatureRange":"15–30°C"}
- Hardiness: {"zones":"9–11"}
- Misting: every 2–3 days in dry climates, less often in humid environments
- Drainage: Fast-draining to prevent waterlogging.
- Soil Type: Well-draining potting mix with added perlite or sand for aeration.
Maintenance Level
- Maintenance Level: moderate
- Toughness Level: moderate
- Pruning Frequency: Every 2–3 months or as needed to control size and shape.
- Pruning Intensity: Moderate; remove up to one-third of growth if overgrown, otherwise selective trimming.
Care Details
Ideal Sunlight Coverage:
Bright indirect light for 6–8 hours daily; can tolerate some direct morning sun but avoid harsh afternoon sun.
Sunlight Tolerance Tips:
Acclimate new plants to sunlight gradually; protect from intense direct sun to prevent leaf scorch; adjust placement based on indoor/outdoor conditions.
Care Requirements
Care Difficulty
easyeasy
Sunlight
bright indirect light to partial shade
Rotate plant for even growth; use sheer curtains to filter harsh light; provide shade during peak sun hours.
Watering
every 7–10 days during active growth, reduce in winter
Water deeply to encourage root growth; allow soil to dry between waterings; avoid overwatering.
Soil
well-draining, fertile potting mix with added perlite or sand
pH: Slightly acidic to neutral (pH 6.0–7.0).
Ensure pots have drainage holes; avoid heavy clay soils; top-dress with compost annually.
Temperature
Prefers 65–85°F (18–29°C); tolerates mild fluctuations but avoid prolonged exposure to extreme temperatures.
Avoid placing near drafty windows; maintain consistent room temperature; use a humidifier in dry environments.
Fertilizing
every 2–4 weeks during growing season, none in winter
Fertilize after watering to prevent root burn; flush soil occasionally to prevent salt buildup; avoid overfertilizing.
Propagation
Methods
Stem cuttings in water or soil; air layering is also effective for larger stems.
Step-by-Step Propagation Guide
- Select healthy stem, cut below node, remove lower leaves, place in medium, keep moist, wait for roots.
Best Time: Spring or early summer when the plant is actively growing.
Environment
Warm, humid environment with indirect light; maintain consistent moisture.
Medium
Well-draining potting mix or water with occasional root hormone application.
Hormone
Optional but recommended for faster rooting.
Timeline
Roots typically form in 2–4 weeks; new growth may take 1–2 months.
Tools Needed
Pruning shears, rooting hormone, small pots, plastic wrap (for humidity).
Quick Tips
Use healthy, non-flowering stems; keep cuttings out of direct sun; maintain humidity for faster rooting.
Pruning & Repotting
Pruning Guide
Method
Pinch back tips for bushier growth; cut stems just above a leaf node or junction.
Pruning Plan
Regular pruning to maintain shape, encourage bushier growth, and remove leggy stems.
Tools
Clean pruning shears or scissors, gloves.
Checklist
Sanitize tools, prune during active growth, remove dead/damaged leaves, shape as desired.
Repotting Guide
Best Season
Spring, before the active growing season begins.
Pot Size
Choose a pot 1–2 inches larger in diameter than the current one.
Method
Remove plant gently, trim roots if necessary, place in new pot with fresh soil, water lightly.
Suggestions
Repot every 1–2 years or when roots outgrow the pot; beneficial for growth and health.
Checklist
Check root bound status, prepare new pot, trim roots if needed, use fresh soil, water after repotting.
Advanced Care Tips
Watering Mastery
Watering Checklist
Check soil moisture, water thoroughly, ensure drainage, adjust for season.
How to Apply Water Properly
Water at the base of the plant, ensuring even moisture distribution to the root zone; allow excess water to drain freely; water in the morning to reduce evaporation.
Watering Schedule Tips
Water thoroughly when the top 1–2 inches of soil are dry; reduce frequency in winter to prevent root rot.
Soil Improvement
Add perlite or coarse sand for drainage; incorporate organic matter like compost for fertility.
Temperature Stress Management
Signs of Temperature Issues
Yellowing leaves, wilting, or leaf drop in cold; stunted growth or leaf burn in excessive heat.
Cold Stress
Slows growth, causes leaf discoloration, and may lead to root damage in freezing temperatures.
Solution: Move to a warmer location; insulate pots; avoid cold drafts; protect from frost.
Hot Stress
Leaves may curl, wilt, or develop brown edges; growth may slow due to excessive transpiration.
Solution: Increase humidity; provide shade; water more frequently but avoid waterlogging; use shade cloth outdoors.
Fertilizing Guide
Fertilizing Checklist
Check season, dilute fertilizer, apply to moist soil, rinse pot periodically.
Fertilizing Method
Use balanced liquid fertilizer diluted to half strength every 4–6 weeks during growing season (spring/summer); reduce or stop in fall/winter.
Common Problems & Solutions
Toxicity Warning
Cats
Slightly ToxicCissus alata ingestion by cats may result in mild gastrointestinal distress caused by the plant's irritant properties.
⚠️ Symptoms:
🌿 Toxic Parts:
⚡ Toxic If:
if eaten
Dogs
Slightly ToxicIngestion of Cissus alata by dogs can lead to mild gastrointestinal upset due to the plant's irritant compounds.
⚠️ Symptoms:
🌿 Toxic Parts:
⚡ Toxic If:
if eaten
Humans
Slightly ToxicCissus alata contains compounds that can cause mild gastrointestinal irritation when ingested. The plant's sap may also cause skin irritation in sensitive individuals.
⚠️ Symptoms:
🌿 Toxic Parts:
⚡ Toxic If:
if eaten
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: How often should I water Cissus alata?
A: Water when the top inch of soil is dry, typically once a week, but adjust based on light and temperature.
Q: Does Cissus alata need direct sunlight?
A: It prefers bright, indirect light but can tolerate lower light conditions.
Q: Is Cissus alata toxic to pets?
A: No, it is non-toxic to dogs and cats.
Quick Reference
| Family: | Vitaceae |
| Care: | easy |
| Light: | bright indirect light to parti |
| Water: | every 7–10 days during activ |
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