Complete guide to grape ivy care

A grape ivy (cissus rhombifolia) is a trailing evergreen vine that can add a beautiful touch of greenery to any home. With its glossy leaves and attractive coloration, it makes an ideal houseplant for those who want to bring a bit of the outdoors inside. A grape ivy is relatively easy to care for, and with a few simple tips and tricks, you can keep your plant looking its best:

• Water when the soil is almost completely dry
• A grape ivy will be fine in most light conditions, but prefer bright, indirect light
• Mist every few days to stop the leaf edges from turning brown

This grape ivy is native to eastern Africa and the Middle East. It’s part of the Vitaceae family, so it behaves in the same way as edible grape vines, just without the grapes. That means lots of climbing! Ours is called Marge because she resembles a pretty famous hair-do...

Grape ivy prefers bright, indirect light. It can tolerate some direct sunlight, but too much can cause the leaves to scorch. If your plant is getting too much sun, move it to a shadier spot.

Water your grape ivy regularly, but don’t let it sit in water. Allow the soil to dry out between waterings. The waxy layer on a grape vine’s round, glossy leaves is brilliant at retaining moisture, so you don’t have to worry too much about a missed watering. Avoid overwatering, as this can lead to root rot.

Grape ivy prefers temperatures between 16-29°C. Avoid extreme temperatures and draughts, as this can make the plant become stressed.

Grape ivy prefers a moderate level of humidity. Mist the leaves regularly, or place the pot on a tray of wet pebbles to help keep the air humid.

Fertilise your grape ivy every two to four weeks during the growing season (spring and summer). Use a balanced liquid fertiliser and dilute it according to the instructions on the package.

Pruning your grape ivy will help keep it healthy and looking its best. Prune off any dead or damaged leaves and stems, and trim back any overgrown vines. If your grape ivy is getting a bit out of control, a good haircut will help maintain its shape.

With a little bit of care and attention, your grape ivy will thrive and bring a touch of greenery to your home.