Family: Vitaceae

Cissus repens, commonly known as cissus, is a fast-growing climbing vine native to parts of Southeast Asia and the western Pacific. It has slender, creeping stems that root easily at the nodes and glossy, heart-shaped to oval leaves that form a dense, spreading groundcover or vine. Because of its attractive foliage and ability to quickly fill space, Cissus repens is sometimes used as an ornamental plant in gardens, hanging baskets, or as a low-maintenance groundcover in warm climates. Its tolerance of shade and moist conditions makes it appealing for landscaping in tropical areas.

In Hawaiʻi, however, Cissus repens has become a concern due to its invasive tendencies, and it is currently naturalized on Oʻahu. The plant spreads readily by stem fragments and can form thick mats that smother other vegetation, including native plants. Its rapid growth and ability to climb over shrubs and small trees allow it to outcompete desirable species for light and space, potentially altering habitat structure. Without active management, Cissus repens can escape cultivation and spread into natural areas, posing a threat to native ecosystems and increasing the need for ongoing control efforts.

High Risk Traits:

• Suited to tropical/subtropical climates
  
• Broad climate and soil tolerance
  
• Shade tolerant
  
• Climbing/smothering vine
  
• Garden/amenity/disturbance weed
  
• Weed in rice fields (Laos/Vietnam)
  
• Congeneric species are weeds
  
• Bird-dispersed berries
  
• Evidence of naturalization (Hawaii)
  
• Can spread vegetatively from cuttings

Low Risk Traits:

• Non-toxic to animals/humans
  
• No spines/thorns/allelopathy
  
• Not a fire hazard
  
• Low seed production (1 seed per berry)