Cissus discolor, also known as the rex begonia vine or tapestry vine, is a tropical vine that is native to Southeast Asia, including Java and Cambodia. Despite its name, it is not related to actual rex begonias. However, its multi-colored leaves bear a striking resemblance to rex begonias, which is why it is commonly referred to by that name.
Belonging to the Vitaceae family, this vining plant is more closely related to grape plants than to begonias. The genus Cissus includes two other well-known species: C. rhombifolia, commonly known as grape ivy and grown as a houseplant, and C. quadrangularis, a medicinal plant with a thick stem. While there are several hundred other species within the Cissus genus, most of them are not commonly cultivated by gardeners.
Cissus discolor has gained popularity as a houseplant, although in my experience, it thrives better when grown outdoors during the warmer months. In this article, I will provide guidance on how to care for this plant both indoors and outdoors.