Large-leaved Uncaria
uncaria macrophylla
Also known as: ["Large-leaved Gambier","Large-leaved Cat's Claw"]
Overview
A tropical vine species in the Rubiaceae family, characterized by its large leaves and woody stems.
Benefits & Perks
["fast growing","wildlife attractant (bees, butterflies, birds)"]
Botanical Classification
| Phylum: | Magnoliophyta |
| Class: | Magnoliopsida |
| Order: | Gentianales |
| Family: | Rubiaceae |
| Genus: | Uncaria |
| Botanical Name: | Uncaria macrophylla |
Plant Characteristics
Basic Information
- Category: Vines
- Suitable Location: shaded garden area with support for climbing or as a potted indoor plant
- Suitable For:
- Is Weed: No
- Allergenicity: low
Environmental Needs
- Climate: {"temperatureRange":"18–30°C"}
- Hardiness: {"zones":"10–11"}
- Misting: every 2–3 days to maintain high humidity
- Drainage: Fast-draining to prevent waterlogging.
- Soil Type: Well-draining potting mix with added organic matter (e.g., peat, compost) and perlite.
Maintenance Level
- Maintenance Level: moderate
- Toughness Level: moderate
- Pruning Frequency: Annually in late winter or early spring before new growth begins.
- Pruning Intensity: Moderate; remove up to one-third of old growth if necessary.
Care Details
Ideal Sunlight Coverage:
Bright indirect light for 6–8 hours daily; adjust to dappled light in intense summer sun.
Sunlight Tolerance Tips:
Gradually acclimate to brighter light to prevent scorching; provide shade during peak midday sun; adjust placement based on indoor/outdoor conditions.
Care Requirements
Care Difficulty
moderatemoderate
Sunlight
partial shade to dappled light
Rotate plant weekly for even growth; use sheer curtains to filter intense light; avoid direct afternoon sun.
Watering
every 7–10 days during active growth, reducing frequency in winter
Water thoroughly until it drains from the bottom, allow soil to dry between waterings, avoid letting the plant sit in water.
Soil
rich, well-draining, organic soil with added compost
pH: Slightly acidic to neutral (pH 5.5–6.5).
Use a mix with good drainage; avoid heavy clay soils; top-dress with compost annually.
Temperature
Prefers 65–85°F (18–29°C); cooler temperatures (55–60°F or 13–15°C) at night; avoid drafts and extreme fluctuations.
Avoid placing near heating/cooling vents; maintain stable temperatures; protect from sudden drops.
Fertilizing
every 4–6 weeks during growing season with balanced liquid fertilizer
Fertilize only when actively growing; flush soil occasionally to prevent salt buildup; avoid over-fertilizing.
Propagation
Methods
Stem cuttings with nodes in water or moist soil.
Step-by-Step Propagation Guide
- Select healthy stem, cut below node, remove lower leaves, apply hormone (optional), place in medium, maintain humidity.
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
Peat-based mix with perlite or coarse sand for good drainage.
Hormone
Optional but recommended for faster rooting.
Timeline
Roots in 4–6 weeks; establish in new pot after 2–3 months.
Tools Needed
Pruning shears, rooting hormone, small pots, plastic wrap or propagator.
Quick Tips
Use healthy, non-flowering stems; maintain consistent moisture; provide bottom heat for faster rooting.
Pruning & Repotting
Pruning Guide
Method
Selective thinning of stems, cutting just above a leaf node or bud.
Pruning Plan
Remove dead or overgrown stems to encourage bushier growth and improve air circulation.
Tools
Clean, sharp pruning shears or scissors.
Checklist
Sterilize tools, prune dead/damaged stems, cut above nodes, clean up debris.
Repotting Guide
Best Season
Spring, when the plant is entering active growth.
Pot Size
One size larger pot (e.g., +2–3 inches in diameter).
Method
Remove plant gently, trim roots if crowded, place in slightly larger pot with fresh soil, water lightly.
Suggestions
Repot every 2–3 years or when roots fill the pot; promotes fresh soil and root health.
Checklist
Check root bound status, prepare new pot, trim roots, use fresh soil, water lightly.
Advanced Care Tips
Watering Mastery
Watering Checklist
Check soil moisture, water thoroughly, ensure drainage, adjust for season.
How to Apply Water Properly
Water directly at the root zone, apply until water drains from the bottom, ensure excess water is removed, water in the morning to reduce evaporation.
Watering Schedule Tips
Water deeply 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 for drainage; incorporate compost for fertility; ensure aeration with chunky materials.
Temperature Stress Management
Signs of Temperature Issues
Yellowing leaves, wilting, bud drop, or stunted growth.
Cold Stress
Slows growth, causes leaf drop, and may lead to root damage if temperatures drop below 50°F (10°C).
Solution: Move to a warmer location, insulate pots, avoid cold drafts, and reduce watering.
Hot Stress
Leaves may scorch, wilt, or drop; growth may slow due to excessive heat.
Solution: Provide shade, increase humidity, water more frequently, and ensure good air circulation.
Fertilizing Guide
Fertilizing Checklist
Check growth phase, dilute fertilizer, apply to moist soil, flush periodically.
Fertilizing Method
Use balanced liquid fertilizer diluted to half strength every 4–6 weeks during growing season (spring/summer); cease in fall/winter.
Common Problems & Solutions
Toxicity Warning
Cats
Non-toxicUncaria macrophylla is not known to be toxic to cats. There are no reported cases of adverse effects in felines from exposure to this plant.
⚡ Toxic If:
None
Dogs
Non-toxicUncaria macrophylla is not known to be toxic to dogs. There are no reported cases of adverse effects in canines from exposure to this plant.
⚡ Toxic If:
None
Humans
Non-toxicUncaria macrophylla is not known to exhibit toxic properties to humans under normal circumstances. It has not been documented to cause adverse effects through ingestion or contact.
⚡ Toxic If:
None
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Is Uncaria macrophylla toxic to pets?
A: There is insufficient data to determine its toxicity to pets.
Q: How should Uncaria macrophylla be cared for?
A: It requires moderate care, including consistent moisture and partial shade.
Q: Does Uncaria macrophylla attract wildlife?
A: Yes, it is known to attract bees, butterflies, and birds.
Quick Reference
| Family: | Rubiaceae |
| Care: | moderate |
| Light: | partial shade to dappled light |
| Water: | every 7–10 days during activ |
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