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Grape Ivy (Cissus rhombifolia) is an evergreen vine that grows in Central and South America and is known for its beautifully leafed trailing habit. This plant grows well inside and can become up to 10 feet tall when provided with bright, indirect light. The plant does well in homes with temperatures ranging from 68°F to 82°F and can handle a mild level of humidity. A Grape Ivy plant only requires water when the top inch of soil is dry. Because its leaves fall down, it can be planted in hanging baskets or grown on trellises to beautify indoor environments.
| Characteristic | Description |
| Scientific Name | Cissus rhombifolia |
| Common Name | Grape Ivy |
| Size | Typically grows 6–10 feet long as a trailing or climbing vine indoors or outdoors in warm climates. |
| Appearance | Attractive dark green, compound leaves with toothed edges; tends to trail or climb using tendrils. |
| Spines | No spines; smooth stems and leaf surfaces. |
| Flowers | Small greenish flowers may appear in mature plants, but they are generally inconspicuous and rare indoors. |
| Fruits | Occasionally produces small, grape-like berries; not commonly seen on indoor plants. |
| Root System | Shallow, fibrous roots; well-suited to containers and hanging baskets. |
| Lifespan | Perennial vine with a long lifespan when properly cared for indoors or in mild outdoor climates. |
| Habitat | Native to Central and South America; thrives in tropical and subtropical climates; popular as a houseplant globally. |
| Water Storage | Does not store water; prefers evenly moist, well-draining soil and tolerates some drought once established. |
| Growth Rate | Moderate to fast growth under bright, indirect light and warm temperatures. |
| Flowering Time | Rarely flowers indoors; may bloom in spring or summer in ideal conditions outdoors. |
| Reproduction | Can be propagated through stem cuttings; roots easily in water or moist soil. |
| Pruning | Prune to maintain shape, encourage bushier growth, and remove dead or leggy stems. |
| Pet Safety | Considered non-toxic to pets by most sources, but ingestion may cause mild stomach upset. |
Table of Contents
How Do You Care for a Grape Ivy Plant?
The best cultivating conditions for Grape Ivy are help from bright indirect sunlight and moderate watering. Make sure the top inch of soil is dry before adding more water. When planting seeds, be sure to choose potting soil with good drainage. Keep the temperature in your home between 68°F and 82°F. Don’t expose the plants to strong winds or overwater them. Cleaning your plant’s leaves and occasionally pruning can help it grow and remove any damaged parts.
How Do You Grow Grape Ivy from Seed or Cuttings?
Grape Ivy is not easy to grow from seed since the seed germinates slowly. It is more successful to grow new plants from cuttings. Trim stem cuttings that are about 4–6 inches long with leaf nodes at the bottom end. Cut off the lower leaves and keep them in moist soil or water. Provide warmth (above 70°F) and increase humidity. It usually takes 2–4 weeks for roots to form. Once your seeds are rooted, start transplanting them to pots.
Can You Root or Divide Grape Ivy?
Yes, Grape ivy can be propagated by dividing larger plants or by taking cuttings from healthy plants. Take a cutting with clean pruning shears or gently divide the root ball using a knife. Make sure your plant is planted in moderately wet, but well-drained soil. Make sure your plant stays warm and just slightly moist until it grows new leaves.
Is Grape Ivy Toxic to Pets or Children?
The substance in Grape Ivy is not poisonous to humans, though pets might experience irritation after consuming it. In cats and dogs, it sometimes leads to mild stomach discomfort. Keep the plant where pets and kids cannot reach it or accidentally touch it.
When and How Should You Repot or Transplant Grape Ivy?
Check for grape ivy after a year or whenever the plant is rootbound. Pick a pot that is 1–2 inches bigger. Be sure to plant with fresh soil that has good drainage. Remove the plant from the pot, gently loosen the roots, and plant it at the same depth. Avoid direct sunlight and water it a little until the plant is properly settled.
Why Is My Grape Ivy Dying or Looking Dull?
Too much watering, not enough light and dry air can cause grape ivy to become unhealthy or appear dull. Test the soil, make sure the plant gets enough light and increase the moisture levels to enhance humidity. Cut off any leaves that have turned brown and check the plant for spider mites. When plants are cared for properly, they recover their green and healthy leaf.
What Does Grape Ivy Look Like and Is It Edible?
Grape Ivy is known for its glossy three-part, dark green leaves and trailing vines. Its shape is similar to that of grapevines, but it does not bear fruit. The plant is not edible and is grown for decoration. They are not used to prepare food or medicines.
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