Roundleaf Grape

cissus rotundifolia

Also known as: ["Roundleaf Ivy","Roundleaf Vine"]

Family: Vitaceae Genus: Cissus Category: Leaf Plants

Overview

A climbing vine with round, glossy leaves and small, inconspicuous flowers, native to tropical regions.

Benefits & Perks

["aesthetic foliage","wildlife attractant (bees, butterflies, birds)"]

Botanical Classification

Phylum: Magnoliophyta
Class: Magnoliopsida
Order: Vitales
Family: Vitaceae
Genus: Cissus
Botanical Name: Cissus rotundifolia

Plant Characteristics

Basic Information
  • Category: Leaf Plants
  • Suitable Location: indoor pot in a bright room or sheltered outdoor spot
  • Suitable For:
    Beginners Indoor Plant Lovers Outdoor Landscapers Wildlife Supporters
  • Is Weed: No
  • Allergenicity: low
Environmental Needs
  • Climate: {"temperatureRange":"15–30°C"}
  • Hardiness: {"zones":"9–11"}
  • Misting: rarely required, only if ambient humidity is very low
  • 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: As needed, typically every 2–3 months or after flowering.
  • Pruning Intensity: Moderate; remove up to one-third of growth if overgrown.
Care Details

Ideal Sunlight Coverage:
Bright indirect light for 6–8 hours daily; tolerate some direct morning sun but avoid harsh afternoon rays.

Sunlight Tolerance Tips:
Acclimate gradually to direct light; protect from intense sun to prevent leaf scorch; adjust placement based on indoor/outdoor conditions.

Warning Signs: Yellowing leaves with brown tips indicate overwatering; leggy growth suggests insufficient light.

Care Requirements

Care Difficulty
moderate

easy

Sunlight

bright, indirect light with some direct morning sun

Rotate plant for even growth; use sheer curtains to filter intense light; move outdoors in spring/summer for stronger light.

Watering

every 7–10 days during active growth, reduce in winter

Allow soil to dry partially between waterings; avoid overwatering, especially in low light.

Soil

well-draining, loamy potting mix with added perlite

pH: Slightly acidic to neutral (pH 6.0–7.0).

Ensure pots have drainage holes; avoid heavy clay soils; refresh soil every 2 years.

Temperature

Prefers 65–80°F (18–27°C); tolerates mild fluctuations but avoid prolonged exposure to extremes.

Avoid cold drafts; maintain stable temperatures; protect from extreme heat.

Fertilizing

every 4–6 weeks during growing season, none in winter

Fertilize only when actively growing; flush soil occasionally to prevent salt buildup; avoid overfertilizing.

Propagation

Methods

Stem cuttings in water or soil.

Step-by-Step Propagation Guide
  1. Select healthy stem.
  2. Cut below node.
  3. Remove lower leaves.
  4. Place in medium.
  5. Maintain moisture.

Best Time: Spring or early summer when the plant is actively growing.

Environment

Warm, humid conditions with indirect light.

Medium

Well-draining potting mix or water with occasional root hormone application.

Hormone

Optional but can speed up rooting.

Timeline

Roots develop in 2–4 weeks; new growth appears in 6–8 weeks.

Tools Needed

Pruning shears, rooting hormone, small pots, water spray bottle.

Quick Tips

Use healthy, non-flowering stems; keep cuttings out of direct sun; maintain consistent moisture.

Pruning & Repotting

Pruning Guide
Method

Pinch back tips or cut stems just above a leaf node.

Pruning Plan

Remove leggy growth to encourage bushier form; prune to control size and shape.

Tools

Clean pruning shears or scissors.

Checklist

Sterilize tools; prune during active growth; remove dead/damaged stems; shape as desired.

Repotting Guide
Best Season

Spring, before new growth begins.

Pot Size

Increase pot size by 1–2 inches in diameter.

Method

Remove plant gently; trim roots if needed; place in new pot with fresh soil; water lightly.

Suggestions

Repot every 2–3 years or when roots fill the pot; beneficial for growth and soil refresh.

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 evenly; ensure drainage; adjust for season.

How to Apply Water Properly

Water deeply until it drains from the bottom, ensuring even moisture without waterlogging; water early in the day to allow foliage to dry.

Pro Tip: Use room-temperature water to avoid shocking the roots.
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, stunted growth, or leaf drop in response to sudden temperature changes.

Cold Stress

Slows growth, causes leaf discoloration, and may lead to root damage in temperatures below 50°F (10°C).

Solution: Move to a warmer location; insulate pots in cold drafts; avoid placing near windows in winter.

Hot Stress

Wilting, leaf scorch, or leaf drop due to excessive heat and dry air.

Solution: Provide shade during peak heat; increase humidity with misting or a pebble tray; ensure adequate watering.

Fertilizing Guide
Fertilizing Checklist

Check growth phase; dilute fertilizer; apply to moist soil; stop in dormant season.

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

Yellowing leaves in Cissus rotundifolia may indicate nutrient deficiencies, overwatering, or pest infestations, affecting photosynthesis and overall plant health.

Wilting in Cissus rotundifolia can result from water stress, either due to under or overwatering, disrupting nutrient uptake and potentially leading to plant death if not addressed.

Leaf spots on Cissus rotundifolia may be caused by fungal or bacterial infections, leading to reduced photosynthetic efficiency and potential leaf drop.

Rotting, particularly root or stem rot, in Cissus rotundifolia is often caused by excessive moisture, leading to decay of plant tissues and eventual plant death.

Toxicity Warning

Cats
Non-toxic

Cissus rotundifolia is not known to be toxic to cats. It does not produce any known harmful compounds that would cause adverse effects in felines.

⚠️ Symptoms:
none
🌿 Toxic Parts:
none
⚡ Toxic If:

if eaten

No specific safety precautions are required for cats that may come into contact with or ingest Cissus rotundifolia.
Dogs
Non-toxic

Cissus rotundifolia is not known to be toxic to dogs. It does not produce any known harmful compounds that would cause adverse effects in canines.

⚠️ Symptoms:
none
🌿 Toxic Parts:
none
⚡ Toxic If:

if eaten

No specific safety precautions are required for dogs that may come into contact with or ingest Cissus rotundifolia.
Humans
Non-toxic

Cissus rotundifolia is not known to exhibit toxic properties to humans. It is generally considered safe for consumption and handling.

⚠️ Symptoms:
none
🌿 Toxic Parts:
none
⚡ Toxic If:

if eaten

No specific safety precautions are required for handling or consumption of Cissus rotundifolia.

Frequently Asked Questions

Q: Is Cissus rotundifolia toxic to pets?

A: No, it is non-toxic to dogs and cats.

Q: How often should I water Cissus rotundifolia?

A: Water moderately, allowing the soil to dry slightly between waterings.

Q: Does Cissus rotundifolia require direct sunlight?

A: It prefers bright, indirect light but can tolerate some shade.

Quick Reference
Family: Vitaceae
Care: moderate
Light: bright, indirect light with so
Water: every 7–10 days during activ
Suitable For: ["beginners","indoor plant lovers","outdoor landscapers","wildlife supporters (attracts bees, butterflies, birds)"]
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