Cissus hypoclauca [Vitaceae]; Jungle grape, water vine, jungle vine, billangaiThe little that you can find about using this plant in a garden tend to warn you against it:
“Beware as growth can be rampant” says Angus Stewart.
“Caution is advised regarding planting as it can be very vigorous” says Australian Plant Society NSW.
In an article Cissus hypoglauca: Keep it Under Control for APS South Eastern Region District Group, Jennifer Liney says:
“Do not ever plant [it] in a domestic garden, particularly if it moist and shady. It will very soon take over your garden… and probably your house as well. If you doubt me, drive to Narooma and see how it has taken over great swathes of the moist forest on the western side of the Princes Highway south of Dalmeny. But it behaves quite well if confined to a pot, either indoors or out; it enjoys good light, but not strong sunlight, and even withstands some neglect.”
However, wisteria and Boston Ivy and Muehlenbeckia complexa (all commonly used climbers in Sydney) could also be described in this way. So we decided to throw caution to the wind and plant it at several projects. Our experience is a little different to the above. It is indeed vigorous, but it hasn’t yet been something that can’t be managed.
Tolerant of deep shade. Good luck.
