Javanese ivy
cissus javana
Also known as: ["Javanese grape","Cissus quadrangularis var. javana"]
Overview
A trailing or climbing vine with succulent, four-angled stems and glossy, heart-shaped leaves.
Benefits & Perks
["aesthetic foliage","fast growing","shade tolerant"]
Botanical Classification
| Phylum: | Magnoliophyta |
| Class: | Magnoliopsida |
| Order: | Vitales |
| Family: | Vitaceae |
| Genus: | Cissus |
| Botanical Name: | Cissus javana |
Plant Characteristics
Basic Information
- Category: Leaf Plants
- Suitable Location: indoor hanging basket or trellis in bright room
- Suitable For:
- Is Weed: No
- Allergenicity: low
Environmental Needs
- Climate: {"temperatureRange":"10–30°C"}
- Hardiness: {"zones":"9–11"}
- Misting: every 2–3 days in dry climates, rarely needed in humid environments
- Drainage: Fast-draining to prevent waterlogging.
- Soil Type: Well-draining potting mix with 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 necessary.
Care Details
Ideal Sunlight Coverage:
Bright indirect light for 6–8 hours daily; tolerate some direct morning sun but avoid harsh afternoon sun.
Sunlight Tolerance Tips:
Acclimate gradually to brighter light; protect from intense direct sun to prevent scorching; adjust placement based on indoor/outdoor conditions.
Care Requirements
Care Difficulty
easyeasy
Sunlight
bright indirect light, tolerates partial shade
Rotate plant weekly for even growth; use sheer curtains to filter strong 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; ensure good drainage.
Soil
well-draining, peat-based potting mix
pH: Slightly acidic to neutral (pH 6.0–7.0).
Use a mix of peat, perlite, and potting soil; avoid heavy clay soils; ensure pots have drainage holes.
Temperature
Prefers 65–80°F (18–27°C); tolerates mild fluctuations but avoid drafts or extreme heat/cold.
Avoid placing near heating/cooling vents; maintain stable temperatures; monitor for signs of stress.
Fertilizing
every 4–6 weeks during growing season, none in winter
Dilute fertilizer to prevent burn; fertilize only when actively growing; flush soil occasionally to prevent salt buildup.
Propagation
Methods
Stem cuttings in water or soil.
Step-by-Step Propagation Guide
- Take a 4–6 inch cutting with nodes.
- Remove lower leaves.
- Place in medium.
- Maintain moisture.
Best Time: Spring or early summer when growth is active.
Environment
Warm, humid, and bright indirect light.
Medium
Well-draining soil mix or water with occasional changes.
Hormone
Optional but can speed up rooting.
Timeline
Roots develop in 2–4 weeks; new growth in 6–8 weeks.
Tools Needed
Pruners, rooting hormone (optional), container, water or soil medium.
Quick Tips
Use healthy, non-flowering stems; keep consistently moist; provide bottom heat for faster rooting.
Pruning & Repotting
Pruning Guide
Method
Pinch back tips for bushier growth; cut just above a leaf node or bud.
Pruning Plan
Prune to control size, encourage bushiness, and remove dead/damaged growth.
Tools
Clean, sharp pruners or scissors.
Checklist
Sanitize tools; prune during active growth; remove dead/diseased parts; shape as desired.
Repotting Guide
Best Season
Spring before active growth begins.
Pot Size
One size up (e.g., +2 inches in diameter).
Method
Use fresh well-draining soil; trim rootbound roots; place in a slightly larger pot with drainage.
Suggestions
Repot every 1–2 years or when roots fill the pot; beneficial for growth and soil freshness.
Checklist
Check root boundness; prepare new pot with drainage; 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 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 are dry; reduce frequency in winter to prevent root rot.
Soil Improvement
Add perlite or coarse sand for drainage; incorporate organic matter for fertility; ensure good aeration.
Temperature Stress Management
Signs of Temperature Issues
Yellowing leaves, leaf drop, or stunted growth indicate temperature stress.
Cold Stress
Low temperatures slow growth and can cause root damage or leaf drop.
Solution: Move to a warmer location; protect from drafts; avoid cold windows or outdoor exposure below 50°F (10°C).
Hot Stress
Excessive heat can lead to wilting, leaf scorch, or dehydration.
Solution: Provide shade; increase humidity; water more frequently but avoid waterlogging.
Fertilizing Guide
Fertilizing Checklist
Check growth phase; dilute fertilizer; apply to moist soil; avoid contact with leaves.
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 javana is non-toxic to cats. There are no known toxic effects or physiological impacts on felines from consuming this plant.
⚡ Toxic If:
if eaten
Dogs
Non-toxicCissus javana is not toxic to dogs. There are no documented adverse effects from ingestion of this plant by canines.
⚡ Toxic If:
if eaten
Humans
Non-toxicCissus javana 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: How often should I water Cissus javana?
A: Water moderately, allowing the top inch of soil to dry out between waterings.
Q: Does Cissus javana require direct sunlight?
A: It prefers bright, indirect light but can tolerate lower light conditions.
Q: Can Cissus javana be grown outdoors?
A: Yes, it can be grown outdoors in warm climates or as a houseplant in cooler regions.
Quick Reference
| Family: | Vitaceae |
| Care: | easy |
| Light: | bright indirect light, tolerat |
| Water: | every 7–10 days during activ |
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