Malaysian Ivy
cissus repens
Also known as: ["Cissus quadrangularis var. repens","Malaysian Ivy Vine"]
Overview
A fast-growing, trailing vine with succulent stems and glossy, heart-shaped leaves.
Benefits & Perks
["fast growing","aesthetic foliage","wildlife attractant (bees, butterflies, birds)"]
Botanical Classification
| Phylum: | Magnoliophyta |
| Class: | Magnoliopsida |
| Order: | Vitales |
| Family: | Vitaceae |
| Genus: | Cissus |
| Botanical Name: | Cissus repens |
Plant Characteristics
Basic Information
- Category: Leaf Plants
- Suitable Location: indoor hanging basket or trellis 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 to maintain moderate humidity
- 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 maintain shape and health.
- 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; tolerates lower light but may grow leggy.
Sunlight Tolerance Tips:
Gradually acclimate to brighter light to prevent leaf burn; keep away from direct afternoon sun; adjust placement based on indoor/outdoor conditions.
Care Requirements
Care Difficulty
easyeasy
Sunlight
bright, indirect light
Rotate plant for even growth; use sheer curtains to filter direct light; supplement with grow lights if needed.
Watering
every 7–10 days, allowing soil to dry slightly between waterings
Allow soil to dry partially between waterings; avoid overwatering; ensure good drainage.
Soil
well-draining, peat-based potting mix
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
Thrives in 65–85°F (18–29°C); prefers warm, stable conditions; avoid cold drafts.
Avoid sudden temperature changes; maintain consistent warmth; monitor for signs of stress.
Fertilizing
every 4–6 weeks during active growth (spring and summer)
Dilute fertilizer to prevent burn; fertilize during active growth; flush soil occasionally to prevent salt buildup.
Propagation
Methods
Stem cuttings in water or soil; nodes must be submerged or buried for rooting.
Step-by-Step Propagation Guide
- Select healthy stem.
- Cut below a node.
- Remove lower leaves.
- Place in medium.
- Keep moist and warm.
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 soil mix or water; can also use perlite or vermiculite for faster rooting.
Hormone
Optional but can speed up rooting; rooting powder or gel is recommended.
Timeline
Roots typically form in 2–4 weeks in water; soil may take slightly longer.
Tools Needed
Sharp scissors or knife, rooting hormone (optional), container, water or soil medium.
Quick Tips
Use healthy, non-flowering stems; keep cuttings out of direct sun; change water regularly if using water propagation.
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 control size, encourage bushier growth, and remove leggy or damaged stems.
Tools
Clean, sharp scissors or pruning shears.
Checklist
Sanitize tools; prune during active growth; remove dead/damaged growth; 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 fill the pot; beneficial for growth and health.
Checklist
Check root bound status; prepare new pot with drainage; use fresh soil mix; 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 deeply at the root zone until water drains from the bottom; avoid wetting foliage; water in the morning for optimal absorption.
Watering Schedule Tips
Water thoroughly when the top 1–2 inches of soil feel 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 (cold stress), wilting or leaf drop (heat stress), stunted growth.
Cold Stress
Slows growth, causes leaf discoloration, and may lead to root rot if soil stays cold and wet.
Solution: Move to a warmer location, protect from drafts, and reduce watering in cooler conditions.
Hot Stress
Leaves may wilt, curl, or scorch; growth may slow if humidity is too low.
Solution: Increase humidity with misting or a pebble tray, provide shade during peak heat, and ensure adequate water.
Fertilizing Guide
Fertilizing Checklist
Check season; dilute fertilizer; apply to moist soil; avoid foliage contact.
Fertilizing Method
Use balanced liquid fertilizer diluted to half strength every 4–6 weeks during growing season (spring/summer); cease in fall/winter.
Common Problems & Solutions
Toxicity Warning
Cats
Non-toxicCissus repens is non-toxic to cats. There are no documented toxic effects or physiological impacts associated with ingestion of this plant by felines.
⚡ Toxic If:
if eaten
Dogs
Non-toxicCissus repens is not toxic to dogs. Ingestion of this plant is unlikely to cause any adverse effects or physiological harm to canines.
⚡ Toxic If:
if eaten
Humans
Non-toxicCissus repens is generally considered non-toxic to humans. There are no known toxic effects or physiological impacts associated with ingestion of this plant.
⚡ Toxic If:
if eaten
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Is Cissus repens toxic to pets?
A: No, it is non-toxic to dogs and cats.
Q: How often should I water Cissus repens?
A: Water when the top inch of soil feels dry, ensuring good drainage to prevent root rot.
Q: Can Cissus repens be grown indoors?
A: Yes, it thrives indoors in bright, indirect light and moderate humidity.
Quick Reference
| Family: | Vitaceae |
| Care: | easy |
| Light: | bright, indirect light |
| Water: | every 7–10 days, allowing so |
Get Expert Care Tips
Download the Plantious app for personalized care reminders and plant identification!
Google Play App Store
