Kangaroo Vine
Cissus antarctica
The Kangaroo Vine is a fast-growing climber from Australian rainforests with glossy, dark-green, heart-shaped leaves and serrated edges. You can train it on a trellis, trail it from a hanging basket, or grow it as a dense floor plant, and it adapts well to typical indoor conditions.
Light
Medium
Water
Moderate
Difficulty
Easy
Humidity
Moderate
Pet Friendly
Cissus antarctica is non-toxic to dogs, cats, and horses, making it an excellent choice for pet-friendly households.
Care Notes
Light
Bright, indirect light is ideal, though medium light is usually fine. Avoid direct midday sun, which can burn the leaves.
Water
Keep soil evenly moist in spring and summer. Let the top inch dry before watering again. Do not leave the plant in standing water. Water less in winter.
Soil
Use a well-draining mix of peat moss, perlite, and potting soil in a planter with drainage holes.
Humidity and Temperature
Moderate humidity and room temperatures between 60°F and 75°F (15°C to 24°C) work well. If the air is very dry, mist occasionally or use a humidifier to reduce leaf drop and brown tips. Pinch growing tips for a fuller plant, and wipe leaves with a damp cloth now and then.
Common Issues
Yellow leaves often mean overwatering. Brown tips usually point to dry air. Leggy growth improves when you prune and give a bit more light.
In-Depth Care & Growth
Feeding & Soil
Fertilizer
Balanced water-soluble houseplant fertilizer
Soil
A well-draining potting mix, such as a blend of peat moss, perlite, and standard potting soil.
Physical Attributes
Mature Size
6 to 10 feet indoors
Growth Rate
Fast
Propagation
Stem tip cuttings are the easiest method; take 3-4 inch cuttings with a few leaves and root them in water or directly in moist soil during spring or summer.
Common Varieties
Minima (dwarf, more compact cultivar)
A compact dwarf form with small, glossy deep green heart-like leaves and serrated edges.