Question
Hi Will,

I just acquired a small Oak leaf ivy (Cissus Rhombifolia 'Ellen Danica'. As usual, the care tag is woefully inadequate in providing care instructions as was the sales clerk. Are the cultural conditions of this ivy species similar to Hederas? Your tips are appreciated.

BTW, I notice from past answers that you have written many articles on plant care. Do you have an article about ivies?

Cheers,
Samantha

Answer
Hi Samantha,

At least the care tag had both the common and complete botanical name. That's way better than the tags that tell you that it is a Green Foliage Plant!

Ellen Danica care is very similar to Hedera ivy care, but it is a little more tolerant of watering lapses.

I see you have been checking up on me! But I don't have an article on Cissus because these once popular plants are not so available anymore. The reason is that they are very vulnerable to powdery mildew, probably due to excessive hybridizing that has weakened their resistance. Keep the leaves dry and be alert for white patches on new leaves. If you find any, remove those leaves immediately and treat the plant with a fungicide specifically recommended for powdery mildew.

Cissus tend to get out of hand if they are not pruned back regularly.

Please let me know if any of this is unclear or if you have any additional questions.

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Regards,
Will Creed, Interior Landscaper
Horticultural Help, NYC

You can E-mail me directly at: [email protected]

Visit my website at  www.HorticulturalHelp.com

If you would like to e-mail me some photos, I may be able to provide some additional insights.