Cissus quadrangularis aka Winged Treebine

Cissus quadrangularis is a succulent vine in the grape family. Its common names include veldt grape, adamant creeper, and pirandai. Its native range spans tropical and southern Africa, including Madagascar. It also covers Arabia and the Indian subcontinent east to Myanmar. It grows in warm regions with a dry season. Wild plants occur in scrub, woodland, and along forest edges. They also grow on sandy riverbanks and termite mounds.

In gardens, it reaches about 5–8 feet [1.5–2.5 metres] tall. Its spread reaches about 1.6–3.3 feet [0.5–1 metre]. Wild stems can reach 49 feet [15 metres] long. Tendrils grip nearby plants and help the vine climb. Without support, its stems spread across the ground. Thick, fleshy stems have four sides and narrow, raised edges. Each joint gives the stems a pinched look. Older stems become woody and develop grey bark. Sparse, fleshy leaves grow at the joints. They may be rounded, toothed, or split into three lobes. Sources differ on whether the plant keeps or sheds its leaves. Green stems capture light when leaves are scarce.

The small flowers grow in clusters beside the leaves. Their colours include white, pale yellow, and green. Chicago Botanic Garden records flowering from January to February. The fleshy fruit may be oval or round. LLIFLE describes ripe fruit as red and very sour. Plants For A Future reports red to black fruit. Each fruit holds one or two seeds.

Grow this vine in warmth, away from frost. RHS recommends year-round glasshouse care in the UK, above 15°C. Sources give USDA zones 10–12 or 10–13. Full sun suits it, though it also grows in light shade. Use gritty potting compost that drains well. Loam and sand suit it across a broad pH range. Water moderately during growth and reduce watering in winter. The plant tolerates drought but grows fast with warmth and moisture. RHS advises a balanced liquid feed each month during growth. Stem cuttings provide one way to raise new plants. Seeds can be sown in spring at 21°C.

It suits pots, hanging baskets, conservatories, and dry gardens. People also grow it as a hedge or to hold dunes. Its stems and roots provide strong fibre. Cooks fry young stems or add them to curries. Leaves, shoots, and fruit also have recorded food uses. Traditional medicine uses it for pain, wounds, and broken bones. These records describe uses, not proof that treatments work. Sources report no known hazards, but give no pet-safety assessment. RHS lists few disease problems. Red spider mites, whiteflies, and mealybugs may attack glasshouse plants.