Family: Vitaceae
Cissus rotundifolia, commonly known as Arabian wax cissus, grape ivy, or Venezuelan treebine, is a climbing vine native to tropical regions of the Americas. This fast-growing plant features glossy, rounded leaves and produces small clusters of berries that attract birds. Valued for its dense foliage and vigorous growth, it is often used as an ornamental vine for covering fences, trellises, and walls, providing lush greenery and quick ground or vertical cover in gardens and landscapes. Its hardy nature makes it a popular choice for both private gardens and public spaces in warm climates.
While Cissus rotundifolia can add attractive greenery, it also poses ecological risks in Hawaii. The vine is naturalized on Kaua’i, O’ahu, Maui, and Hawai’i islands, where it can grow aggressively and outcompete native plants. Its rapid spread and dense growth can smother native vegetation, reduce biodiversity, and alter natural habitats. Gardeners should manage it carefully and consider planting native alternatives to help protect Hawaii’s unique ecosystems.
High Risk Traits:
- High climate suitability for tropical/subtropical regions.
- Naturalized outside native range (e.g., Hawaii).
- Congeneric weeds exist (other invasive Cissus species).
- Climbing/smothering growth habit; can form dense thickets.
- Multiple reproduction modes: produces viable seeds and reproduces vegetatively.
- Bird-dispersed seeds; also dispersed intentionally by people.
- Tolerant of mutilation (can regrow).
Low Risk Traits:
- Not reported as an agricultural, environmental, or garden weed.
- Non-toxic to humans and animals.
- No spines, thorns, or burrs.
- Not a fire hazard, parasitic, or allelopathic.
- Seeds are large, not produced en masse.
- No evidence of a persistent seed bank.
- Not adapted for wind, water, or external animal dispersal.
