Cissus discolor
rex begonia vine
A slender, evergreen climber to 2.5m, with red stems and tendrils. The elongated, heart-shaped leaves are dark green with silvery or pink zones between the veins; the undersides are dark purple. Can be grown as either a climbing or trailing houseplant
Size
Ultimate height
1.5–2.5 metresTime to ultimate height
5–10 yearsUltimate spread
0.1–0.5 metresGrowing conditions
Moisture
Moist but well–drainedpH
Acid, Alkaline, NeutralColour & scent
| Stem | Flower | Foliage | Fruit | |
| Spring | Green Grey Silver Pink | |||
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Summer | Green Grey Silver Pink | |||
| Autumn | Green Grey Silver Pink | |||
| Winter | Green Grey Silver Pink |
Position
- Partial shade
Aspect
East–facing or West–facing
Exposure
Sheltered Hardiness
H1BBotanical details
- Family
- Vitaceae
- Native to the UK
- No
- Foliage
- Evergreen
- Habit
- Climbing, Trailing
- Genus
Cissus can be perennials, shrubs or climbers, sometimes with succulent stems or rootstocks, and with simple or palmately lobed or divided, evergreen leaves and clusters of insignificant flowers followed by small berries
- Name status
Correct
- Plant range
- SE Asia to Aus.
How to grow
Cultivation
Grow in loam-based potting compost in bright, indirect light. Water freely during the growing season and apply a high-nitrogen fertiliser monthly; water moderately in winter. Provide trellis or obelisk if you want the vine to climb. See houseplant cultivation
Propagation
Propagate by semi-ripe cuttings
Suggested planting locations and garden types
- Houseplants
- Conservatory and greenhouse
Pruning
Trim back overly-long shoots as needed
Pests
May be susceptible to red spider mite and mealybugs
Diseases
Generally disease-free
Get involved
The Royal Horticultural Society is the UK’s leading gardening charity. We aim to enrich everyone’s life through plants, and make the UK a greener and more beautiful place.