Cat's Claw Vine (Dolichandra unguis-cati)

Cat's Claw Vine

Dolichandra unguis-cati

Its clawed tendrils cling tightly like tiny cat paws, weaving green curtains over walls. Evergreen climbing vine; common name: cat's claw creeper.

Full sun
1–2/week
Moderate
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Plant Needs

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Sunlight Thrives in full sun for maximum flowering; tolerates partial shade in hot, arid regions
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Watering Water deeply when the top 2–3 cm of soil dries out; avoid standing water to prevent root rot
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Temperature Tolerates mild frost down to 10°C; optimal growth occurs at 20–30°C
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Characteristics

  • Leaf: Opposite compound leaves with 2 glossy ovate leaflets and a claw-shaped tendril at the tip
  • Flower: Bright yellow, trumpet-shaped blooms in terminal clusters of 2–5
  • Stem: Slender, woody climbing stems with adhesive tendrils for anchoring
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Care Guide

Watering

Keep soil consistently moist during active growth periods

Fertilization

Apply balanced liquid fertilizer monthly. Avoid over-fertilization to prevent excessive foliage growth at the expense of flowering

Banana peel tea:Soak 1 chopped banana peel in 1 liter of water for 24 hours; strain and use the liquid to water the base of the plant; discard solid peels to avoid pest infestations
Pruning
  • Trim overgrown stems immediately after flowering to maintain desired shape
  • Remove dead or damaged foliage to improve air circulation and reduce disease risk
  • Cut back aggressive climbing growth to prevent it from overtaking nearby plants
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Toxicity

Warning: this plant may be toxic.

Pets & Humans

Pets: ASPCA: Non-toxic; no adverse effects from contact or ingestion

Humans: No known toxic compounds; safe for handling and accidental small ingestion

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Garden Uses & Culture

Culture: N/A

Usage: Ornamental climbing vine for fences, walls, and arbors; attracts bees and hummingbirds as pollinators