Botanical family: Vitaceae

Cissus rhombifolia

The first and most common type was Cissus rhombifolia known as Grape Ivy since the foliage resembles grape leaves and it climbs with the aid of tendrils. Compound leaves with 3 leaflets; stems covered in soft brown hair; vine-like habit with tendrils that allow it to climb.

Ellen Danica, a sport with leaves resembling an oak leaf, was the next variety to enter the market. The loosely arranged leaflets and leaflet lobing give this cultivar a finer texture than the others.

One of the most popular house plants, with showy leaves and cascading growth habit. Very fast growing and easy in care. In nature, it grows as a climber with tendrils. Leaves are broadly ovate, toothed, leathery, glossy, deep green. The perfect addition to any home, office, or greenhouse setting. The plant prefers medium light intensity but will also tolerate shade for short periods of time. Maintain an evenly moist soil during the growing season but give less water in winter.

Cissus rotundifolia

Perfect neglect plant! Grow it either as house plant, hanging basket, fast growing ground cover, or decorate your patio with it. It needs no attention and will reward your "no-efforts" with beautiful waxy foliage. Cissus rotundifolia comes from East Africa. It has green stems with almost round leaves. The leaves are fleshy, waxy, toothed and of a deep green color. Tendrils arise opposite young leaves and the plant climbs on supports with their help. Needs very little water. Great house plant especially for those who have brown thumb. Good plant for beginners. If you forget to water it, it won't even notice!

Cissus sicyoides, Cissus verticillata

A native to Tropical American, Cissus sicyoides, commonly known as the Possum Grape Vine, is an ornamental creeper grown in USDA Zone 9-11. It is a fast growing plant with woody stems, waxy dark green leaves, and black grape-like fruit that provide a showy display in the fall. In addition to its ornamental foliage, it is a popular ethnomedical plant, used as a remedy in traditional medicine. The leaf decoctions of Cissus sicyoides are taken widely as a popular remedy for diabetes mellitus in Brazil, where its common name is vegetal insulin.

For optimal growth and health, plant Cissus sicyoides in full sun and semi-shade, with moderate water needed. It is best grown in a pot for cold regions. Ensure the pot has good drainage, as the plant does not like to remain with wet soil for long- periods of time. When first planting, loosen the root ball, cover the root area with soil, and then water the pot. Additionally, the pot should be large enough to accommodate the vine's size when fully mature. For maximum growth, use a balanced slow-release fertilizer and apply it every six months. Prune away dead or damaged foliage as needed.

Cissus sicyoides can be invasive, so plant it with caution and check for stray growth. As an invasive species, it has the potential to spread weeds and adversely affect local ecosystems. Be sure to keep an eye out for overgrowth, and contain and prune it if necessary.

Cissus striata, Vitis striata, Parthenocissus striata, Sugar Vine

A creeping, mounding plant with dark green leaves having tiny crystals resembling grains of sugar on the leaves. It can be grown on a fence or other support as a vine or used in the open as a groundcover or even in a hanging basket.