Cat's Claw Vine
dolichandra unguis-cati
Also known as: ["Cat's Claw Vine","Cat's Claw Creeper"]
Overview
A vigorous, woody vine with distinctive claw-like tendrils and showy, trumpet-shaped flowers, native to South America.
Benefits & Perks
["long-flowering","fragrant flowers","wildlife attractant (bees, butterflies, birds)"]
Botanical Classification
| Phylum: | Magnoliophyta |
| Class: | Magnoliopsida |
| Order: | Lamiales |
| Family: | Bignoniaceae |
| Genus: | Dolichandra |
| Botanical Name: | Dolichandra unguis-cati |
Plant Characteristics
Basic Information
- Category: Flowers
- Suitable Location: trellis or fence in a sunny garden, or large container
- Suitable For:
- Is Weed: No
- Allergenicity: low
Environmental Needs
- Climate: {"temperatureRange":"10–35°C"}
- Hardiness: {"zones":"9–11"}
- Misting: rarely required, only if ambient humidity is very low
- Drainage: Fast-draining to prevent waterlogging.
- Soil Type: Well-draining potting mix with added perlite or sand for aeration.
Maintenance Level
- Maintenance Level: moderate
- Toughness Level: moderate
- Pruning Frequency: Annually in late winter or early spring; light pruning can be done as needed year-round.
- Pruning Intensity: Moderate; remove up to one-third of the plant if overgrown, but avoid heavy pruning during flowering
Care Details
Ideal Sunlight Coverage:
Bright indirect light for 6–8 hours daily; can tolerate some direct morning sun but avoid harsh afternoon sun.
Sunlight Tolerance Tips:
Acclimate gradually to direct sun; protect from intense midday sun; adjust placement based on indoor/outdoor conditions.
Care Requirements
Care Difficulty
moderatemoderate
Sunlight
full sun to partial shade
Rotate plant for even growth; use sheer curtains to filter strong light; move outdoors in spring/summer for optimal light.
Watering
every 7–10 days during active growth, reduce in winter
Water deeply to encourage root growth; allow soil to dry between waterings; avoid overwatering.
Soil
well-draining, loamy soil with some organic matter
pH: Slightly acidic to neutral (pH 6.0–7.0).
Ensure pots have drainage holes; avoid heavy clay soils; top-dress with compost annually.
Temperature
Prefers 65–85°F (18–29°C); tolerates mild frosts but thrives in warm conditions.
Protect from drafts; maintain consistent temperatures; adjust care based on seasonal changes.
Fertilizing
every 4–6 weeks during spring and summer
Apply fertilizer after watering to prevent root burn; flush soil occasionally to prevent salt buildup; reduce frequency in dormant periods.
Propagation
Methods
Stem cuttings with at least two nodes; air layering is also effective for larger plants.
Step-by-Step Propagation Guide
- Take a cutting.
- Apply rooting hormone.
- Plant in medium.
- Maintain humidity.
- Wait for roots.
Best Time: Spring or early summer when the plant is actively growing.
Environment
High humidity (70–80%), warm temperatures (70–75°F or 21–24°C), and indirect light.
Medium
Well-draining mix of perlite and peat moss or cactus mix.
Hormone
Rooting hormone is recommended to speed up root development.
Timeline
Roots develop in 4–6 weeks; new growth appears in 2–3 months.
Tools Needed
Pruning shears, rooting hormone, small pots, plastic wrap or propagator, misting bottle.
Quick Tips
Use healthy, non-flowering stems; keep soil consistently moist but not waterlogged; provide bottom heat for faster rooting.
Pruning & Repotting
Pruning Guide
Method
Selective thinning of stems; heading back to encourage branching; remove crossing or damaged growth.
Pruning Plan
Prune to control size, encourage bushier growth, and remove dead or overgrown stems.
Tools
Pruning shears, loppers (for thicker stems), gloves, disinfectant.
Checklist
Disinfect tools; prune during dormancy; make clean cuts just above a node; remove debris after pruning.
Repotting Guide
Best Season
Early spring before new growth begins.
Pot Size
Increase pot size by 2–3 inches in diameter; ensure good drainage holes.
Method
Remove plant gently; trim roots if necessary; place in new pot with fresh soil; water lightly.
Suggestions
Repot every 2–3 years or when roots fill the pot; beneficial for growth and flowering.
Checklist
Check root bound status; prepare new pot; use fresh soil mix; water after repotting; place in shade for a few days.
Advanced Care Tips
Watering Mastery
Watering Checklist
Check soil moisture; water deeply; ensure drainage; adjust for season.
How to Apply Water Properly
Water at the base of the plant, ensuring moisture reaches the root zone; water until it drains from the bottom; avoid wetting foliage to prevent fungal issues.
Watering Schedule Tips
Water thoroughly when the top 1–2 inches of soil are dry; reduce frequency in winter to prevent root rot.
Soil Improvement
Add perlite or coarse sand to improve drainage; incorporate organic matter like compost for fertility.
Temperature Stress Management
Signs of Temperature Issues
Yellowing leaves, leaf drop, or stunted growth in cold; wilting or scorched leaves in excessive heat.
Cold Stress
Slows growth; may cause leaf drop; vulnerable to root damage in freezing temperatures.
Solution: Move to a warmer location; insulate roots with mulch; avoid watering when temperatures drop below 50°F (10°C).
Hot Stress
Wilting, leaf scorch, or reduced flowering due to excessive heat and dryness.
Solution: Provide shade during peak heat; increase humidity; water more frequently but avoid waterlogging.
Fertilizing Guide
Fertilizing Checklist
Check season; dilute fertilizer; apply to moist soil; avoid contact with foliage.
Fertilizing Method
Use balanced liquid fertilizer diluted to half strength every 4–6 weeks during growing season (spring/summer); avoid fertilizing in winter.
Common Problems & Solutions
Toxicity Warning
Cats
Slightly ToxicCats may experience mild gastrointestinal irritation if they consume the seeds or berries of Dolichandra unguis-cati. The toxicity is generally low but can cause discomfort.
⚠️ Symptoms:
🌿 Toxic Parts:
⚡ Toxic If:
if eaten
Dogs
Slightly ToxicIn dogs, ingestion of the seeds and berries of Dolichandra unguis-cati can lead to mild gastrointestinal upset. The toxic compounds are not highly concentrated but can cause discomfort.
⚠️ Symptoms:
🌿 Toxic Parts:
⚡ Toxic If:
if eaten
Humans
Slightly ToxicDolichandra unguis-cati contains compounds that can cause mild gastrointestinal distress when ingested. The seeds and berries are the primary toxic parts, containing substances that may irritate the digestive tract.
⚠️ Symptoms:
🌿 Toxic Parts:
⚡ Toxic If:
if eaten
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: How fast does Cat's Claw Vine grow?
A: It is a fast-growing vine that can quickly cover structures or trellises.
Q: Does it require support?
A: Yes, it needs a trellis or support structure due to its climbing habit.
Q: Is it suitable for container gardening?
A: While possible, it requires a large container and regular pruning to manage its vigorous growth.
Quick Reference
| Family: | Bignoniaceae |
| Care: | moderate |
| Light: | full sun to partial shade |
| Water: | every 7–10 days during activ |
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