Rhoicissus tomentosa

Rhoicissus tomentosa capensis creeper - Cape Town 1

Error creating thumbnail:

Rhoicissus tomentosa capensis creeper - Cape Town 2

Error creating thumbnail:

Rhoicissus tomentosa - cape grape creeper - cape town - 4

Rhoicissus tomentosa - Cape Grape Creeper - Cape Town

Rhoicissus tomentosa, commonly known as the Cape Grape, is a species of flowering plant in the family Vitaceae. It is native to the forests and woodlands of South Africa. This plant is known for its vigorous growth and attractive foliage, making it a popular choice for gardens and landscaping.

Description

Rhoicissus tomentosa is a climbing plant that can reach up to 10 meters in length. The leaves are evergreen, simple, and alternately arranged. They are broadly ovate with a dense covering of tomentose (hairy) texture on the underside, which gives the plant its specific epithet tomentosa. The flowers are small, greenish-yellow, and appear in clusters. The fruit is a small, dark purple berry that is edible but not commonly consumed.

Habitat

This species thrives in moist, shaded environments and is often found in the understory of forests and along riverbanks. It prefers well-drained soils and can tolerate a range of soil types, from sandy to clayey.

Cultivation

Rhoicissus tomentosa is cultivated for its ornamental value. It can be grown as a ground cover or trained to climb on trellises and fences. The plant requires minimal maintenance once established and is relatively resistant to pests and diseases. It can be propagated from cuttings or seeds.

Uses

While the berries of Rhoicissus tomentosa are edible, they are not widely used in cuisine. The plant is primarily valued for its aesthetic appeal in landscaping and horticulture.

Related Species

Rhoicissus tomentosa is closely related to other species in the Rhoicissus genus, such as Rhoicissus digitata and Rhoicissus rhomboidea.

See Also

• Vitaceae
• Climbing plants
• South African flora