Family: Vitaceae
Common name: Veldt Grape, Devil’s Backbone, Adamant creeper, Bone setter, Asthisamhara, Edible stemmed vine, Horjora, Square-stalked vine, Winged treebine, Changalamparanda, Asthibhanga
Veldt Grape or Bonesetter is a succulent, rambling vine well-known for its medicinal properties, especially helpful for the bones and joints.
Plant characteristics
They can grow to a height of 1 to 1.5 meters with distinctive quadrangular or four-sided stems that give the plant a rectangular outline. Along each side is a thick leathery edge which is brown in mature leaves and there is a distinct dip running along the center of each rectangular surface.
They are good climbers and can climb on trellises and supporting structures with tendrils that arise from the stem nodes.
Bonesetter stems are succulent and fleshy with glossy, green leaves that are ovate in shape. Leaves are 3-6 cm in diameter, growing at the nodes or at the tip of the stem, with serrated margins.
Veldt grape plants produce small flowers that are greenish-yellow with no petals. Flowers are self-pollinated or through insects.
Once pollinated, the flowers produce small round berries that are initially red, turning purple and black on maturity. These fruits are small, 6-8 millimeters and contains a single seed surrounded by juicy pulp.
The fruits are sweet and tart, like grapes, which is not surprising since the Bonesetter plants belong to the grapes family of Vitaceae. Fruits are not very common, but they can be used to make jam and preserves.
Gardening tips
Bonesetter plants are native to Asia and they grow well in tropical, warm weather. They need bright, indirect sunlight and well-drained soil. They are tolerant of drought and needs very little water. Do not overwater these plants since, like all succulents, they can suffer from root rot.
Since Veldt grape plants love to climb, it is essential to provide them with trellises or supporting structures. The stems can be trained to grow on the supports by tying them with threads or twines.
Medicinal uses
Bonesetter plant has many medicinal uses, as is obvious from its name. It has been used in Ayurveda and Siddha medicine for promoting healing of fracture for many years. The vine is rich in calcium, phosphorus, and other minerals that help strengthen the bones, reducing osteoporosis.
Supplements of Veldt grape are available in the form of tablets are available with claims of aiding in weight management, and promoting joint health. The Bonesetter plant is also used in the treatment of joint pain, arthritis, diabetes, anemia, asthma, malaria, ulcers, obesity, rheumatism, scurvy, eye disorders and so on.
Tender leaves and stem can be cooked and eaten, or added to soups, stews, and salads. Ripe fruits can be eaten as is, or used to make preserves, syrups, jams, and jellies. It is recommended not to take any herb without expert medical advise.
Propagation
The vine is propagated through stem cuttings which root readily in moist soil or water. They can also be propagated through seeds and layering.
For layering, make a shallow cut on a healthy flexible stem and bury that area in the soil without detaching it from the parent plant. Keep the soil moist until roots form at this incision. Once roots are formed, this piece can be severed from the parent plant and re-planted
Photographed at: GKVK College of Agriculture, Bangalore
