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Veldt Grape

Cissus quadrangularis
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Cissus quadrangularis (Veldt Grape) — botanical photograph
Pl. 4A54 — Cissus quadrangularis
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Overview

Veldt Grape, scientifically known as *Cissus quadrangularis*, is a sprawling vine native to a wide range of countries across Africa and Asia, including Angola, Bangladesh, Benin, Burkina, Burundi, Cameroon, and Ethiopia. This adaptable plant thrives in full sun and can grow up to 5 meters tall, making it a versatile addition to gardens or landscapes. Veldt Grape is known for its edible parts, which include the fruit, leaves, shoots, and stems. These parts can be consumed fresh or cooked, enhancing the flavor and texture of the plant. The veldt grape can be found in various regions, including the Andaman Islands, Cambodia, and Cuba, among others. The plant's distinctive square stem sets it apart from other climbing plants, providing a unique visual appeal. It is native to Angola, Bangladesh, Benin, Burkina, Burundi, Cameroon, and many other countries, making it a valuable addition to gardens in these regions. Veldt Grape is also useful for erosion control and can serve as a hedgerow. It grows quickly and is hardy in zones 10-12, though it can be grown as an annual in cooler climates. This vine prefers light (sandy), medium, or heavy (clay) soils and can tolerate both dry and moist conditions, making it a resilient choice for gardeners.

Quick answers

What is Veldt Grape?

Veldt Grape, scientifically known as *Cissus quadrangularis*, is a sprawling vine native to a wide range of countries across Africa and Asia, including Angola, Bangladesh, Benin, Burkina, Burundi, Cameroon, and Ethiopia.

Growingconditions · propagation · uses
V

Cultivation

Veldt Grape thrives in full sun and can tolerate both dry and moist conditions. It prefers light (sandy), medium, or heavy (clay) soils. This plant is hardy in zones 10-12 but may be grown as an annual elsewhere. It can reach a height of 5 meters and is versatile, with edible parts including fruit, leaves, shoots, and stems. For propagation, cuttings are the recommended method.
Light
Full sun
Water
Dry, Moist
Soil
Light (sandy), Medium, Heavy (clay)
Hardiness
10-12
Mature size
5.0 m tall
For first-time growers

How to grow Veldt Grape for the first time

8steps

Start with a simple, sunny spot and basic soil to grow Veldt Grape successfully.

  1. 1

    What you'll need

    Seeds or small plants, potting mix, container, watering can.

  2. 2

    Best time to plant

    Plant in spring when the weather starts warming up.

  3. 3

    Soil and container prep

    Use a well-draining potting mix. Ensure your container has drainage holes.

  4. 4

    Sowing or transplanting

    Direct sow seeds outdoors after all danger of frost is past, or start indoors 4-6 weeks before planting out.

  5. 5

    First two weeks

    Keep the soil moist but not waterlogged. Place in a sunny spot to encourage growth.

  6. 6

    Ongoing care

    Water when the top inch of soil feels dry, especially during hot weather. Provide full sun for best results.

  7. 7

    Harvest or pruning

    Prune stems as needed to maintain shape and size. Harvest leaves and shoots for culinary use.

  8. 8

    Common mistakes

    Overwatering, planting in heavy soil, not providing enough sunlight, neglecting regular pruning.

VI

Edible & utility

Edible parts:FruitLeavesShootsStem
Edible uses: The veldt grape can be eaten in various forms. Its leaves, shoots, and stems are often consumed fresh or cooked. The fruit is also edible and can be eaten raw. These parts of the plant are typically prepared either fresh or lightly cooked to enhance their flavor and texture.
Other uses:FiberHedgerowErosion control
Contextrange · companions · related
VII

Distribution

44 native · 16 introduced
Distribution across3 continents· 44 native· 16 introduced
Asia13 regions
native (8)BangladeshIndiaMyanmarOmanPakistanSaudi ArabiaSri LankaYemen
introduced (5)CambodiaLaosPhilippinesThailandVietnam
Americas2 regions
introduced (2)CubaJamaica
Africa32 regions
native (30)AngolaBeninBurkina FasoBurundiCameroonChadCôte d'IvoireDjiboutiEritreaEswatiniEthiopiaGambiaGuinea-BissauKenyaMadagascarMalawiMaliMauritaniaMozambiqueNigerNigeriaRwandaSenegalSomaliaSudanTanzaniaTogoUgandaZambiaZimbabwe
introduced (2)ComorosMauritius
Broader regions
native:Central African Repu, KwaZulu-Natal, Laccadive Is., Northern Provinces, Zaïre
introduced:Andaman Is., Jawa, Leeward Is., Malaya, Marianas, Réunion, Windward Is.
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Specimen gallery

1 image
Cissus quadrangularis (Veldt Grape) — botanical photograph
Veldt Grape (Cissus quadrangularis)
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Explore further

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