Cat's Claw Vine

macfadyena unguis-cati

Also known as: ["Cat's Claw Vine","Yellow Cat's Claw"]

Family: Bignoniaceae Genus: Macfadyena Category: Flowers

Overview

A vigorous, climbing vine with bright yellow flowers resembling a cat's claw, native to tropical regions.

Benefits & Perks

["long-flowering","fragrant flowers","wildlife attractant (bees, butterflies, birds)"]

Botanical Classification

Phylum: Magnoliophyta
Class: Magnoliopsida
Order: Lamiales
Family: Bignoniaceae
Genus: Macfadyena
Botanical Name: Macfadyena unguis-cati

Plant Characteristics

Basic Information
  • Category: Flowers
  • Suitable Location: trellis or fence in a warm, sheltered spot
  • Suitable For:
    Collectors & Enthusiasts Outdoor Landscapers Wildlife Supporters
  • 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 oldest stems to rejuvenate growth.
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.

Warning Signs: Yellowing leaves, root rot, or stunted growth indicate poor soil or drainage issues.

Care Requirements

Care Difficulty
moderate

moderate

Sunlight

full sun to partial shade

Rotate plant for even light exposure; use sheer curtains to filter intense light; move outdoors in spring/summer for stronger light.

Watering

every 7–10 days during active growth, reduce in winter

Water thoroughly but infrequently; ensure soil dries 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; topdress with compost annually.

Temperature

Prefers 65–85°F (18–29°C); can tolerate brief dips to 50°F (10°C) but thrives in warmer conditions.

Protect from frost; avoid placing near drafty windows; maintain consistent temperatures for best growth.

Fertilizing

every 4–6 weeks during growing season

Fertilize after watering to prevent root burn; flush soil occasionally to prevent salt buildup; avoid overfertilizing.

Propagation

Methods

Stem cuttings with nodes; can also propagate from seeds (slower method).

Step-by-Step Propagation Guide
  1. Take a cutting with at least 2 nodes.
  2. Let it callus for a day.
  3. Apply rooting hormone.
  4. Plant in medium.
  5. Keep moist and humid.

Best Time: Spring or early summer when the plant is actively growing.

Environment

High humidity (70–90%), warm temperatures (70–75°F or 21–24°C), 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 may develop in 3–6 weeks; new growth may take 2–3 months.

Tools Needed

Pruning shears, rooting hormone, small pots, humidity dome or plastic bag.

Quick Tips

Use healthy, non-flowering stems; maintain humidity until roots form; avoid direct sun during rooting.

Pruning & Repotting

Pruning Guide
Method

Cut stems just above a leaf node or bud; remove crossing or crowded branches.

Pruning Plan

Prune to control size, encourage bushier growth, and remove dead or overgrown stems.

Tools

Pruning shears, sterilized scissors, gloves.

Checklist

Sterilize tools; prune during dormancy; remove dead/damaged growth; shape as desired.

Repotting Guide
Best Season

Spring, before the active growing season begins.

Pot Size

Increase pot size by 2–3 inches in diameter; ensure good drainage.

Method

Remove plant gently; trim any circling roots; place in a slightly larger pot with fresh soil; water lightly.

Suggestions

Repot every 2–3 years or when roots fill the pot; beneficial for growth and health.

Checklist

Check root bound status; prepare new pot with drainage; trim roots if needed; use fresh soil mix.

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; allow excess water to drain away; water in the morning to reduce evaporation.

Pro Tip: Use a watering can with a narrow spout to direct water to the roots without wetting foliage.
Watering Schedule Tips

Water deeply once the top inch of soil is 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 (cold stress), wilting or leaf drop (heat stress), stunted growth.

Cold Stress

Slows growth, causes leaf yellowing, and may lead to root damage if temperatures drop below 50°F (10°C).

Solution: Move to a warmer location; insulate roots with mulch; avoid cold drafts.

Hot Stress

Leaves may wilt, curl, or drop; growth may slow; risk of sunburn if exposed to intense heat.

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; rinse pot periodically.

Fertilizing Method

Use balanced liquid fertilizer diluted to half strength every 4–6 weeks during growing season (spring/summer); reduce or stop in fall/winter.

Common Problems & Solutions

Yellowing leaves in Macfadyena unguis-cati may indicate nutrient deficiencies, overwatering, or pest infestations, which can compromise photosynthesis and overall plant health.

Wilting in Macfadyena unguis-cati is often a sign of water stress, either due to insufficient watering or root damage from pests or pathogens, affecting the plant's ability to transport water.

Leaf spots on Macfadyena unguis-cati may be caused by fungal or bacterial pathogens, resulting in reduced photosynthetic efficiency and potential defoliation if left untreated.

Rotting, particularly root or stem rot, can occur in Macfadyena unguis-cati due to excessive moisture or fungal infections, leading to decay of plant tissues and eventual plant death.

Toxicity Warning

Cats
Slightly Toxic

Cats are susceptible to mild toxicity from Macfadyena unguis-cati if they consume the seeds or roots. The plant can cause gastrointestinal irritation and other mild systemic effects, though severe reactions are rare.

⚠️ Symptoms:
vomiting diarrhea depression anorexia
🌿 Toxic Parts:
seeds roots
⚡ Toxic If:

if eaten

Prevent cats from accessing the plant. If ingestion is suspected, consult a veterinarian without delay.
Dogs
Slightly Toxic

In dogs, ingestion of Macfadyena unguis-cati, particularly its seeds and roots, can lead to mild to moderate gastrointestinal upset. While not typically life-threatening, the plant can cause discomfort and should be avoided.

⚠️ Symptoms:
vomiting diarrhea lethargy loss of appetite
🌿 Toxic Parts:
seeds roots
⚡ Toxic If:

if eaten

Keep dogs away from the plant, especially seeds and roots. If ingestion is suspected, contact a veterinarian promptly.
Humans
Slightly Toxic

Macfadyena unguis-cati contains toxic compounds, primarily in its seeds and roots, which can cause mild to moderate gastrointestinal distress and other systemic effects upon ingestion. The plant's toxicity is not severe but can lead to discomfort and adverse reactions in humans.

⚠️ Symptoms:
nausea vomiting abdominal pain diarrhea
🌿 Toxic Parts:
seeds roots
⚡ Toxic If:

if eaten

Avoid ingestion of seeds and roots. Keep out of reach of children and pets. If accidental ingestion occurs, seek medical attention immediately.
Important: Keep this plant out of reach of children and pets. If ingestion occurs, contact poison control or veterinary services immediately.

Frequently Asked Questions

Q: Is Macfadyena unguis-cati toxic to pets?

A: Reliable information on toxicity to pets is not available.

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 this plant require full sun?

A: Yes, it thrives in full sun to partial shade.

Quick Reference
Family: Bignoniaceae
Care: moderate
Light: full sun to partial shade
Water: every 7–10 days during activ
Suitable For: ["collectors/enthusiasts","outdoor landscapers","wildlife supporters (attracts bees, butterflies, birds)"]
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