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The Cat’s Claw Vine (Macfadyena unguis-cati) has yellow trumpet-shaped flowers that support fast-growing climbers. The thorns on it are like claws that enable it to stick to walls and fences for support. This flower is commonly grown in Central and South America because it likes full sun and grows in all types of soil. The vine can handle a shortage of moisture after being settled and rapidly develops by sending out roots and buds. It gives great vegetation for wildlife, but in some regions it can become a problem. You have to prune your plant often to control its size. It can grow to 50 feet tall if supported correctly.
| Characteristic | Description |
| Scientific Name | Macfadyena unguis-cati |
| Common Name | Cat’s Claw Vine |
| Size | Fast-growing vine that can exceed 30 feet in a single season with the right conditions. |
| Appearance | Woody climbing vine with glossy green leaves and distinctive claw-like tendrils; bright yellow trumpet-shaped flowers. |
| Spines | No true spines, but has claw-like tendrils that help it cling to surfaces. |
| Flowers | Bright yellow, trumpet-shaped flowers bloom in spring; very attractive to pollinators like hummingbirds and bees. |
| Fruits | Long, flat seed pods that split open when mature, releasing winged seeds. |
| Root System | Tuberous roots that store energy and water, making the vine hard to eliminate once established. |
| Lifespan | Perennial; can persist for many years, especially in warm climates with minimal frost. |
| Habitat | Native to Central and South America; thrives in tropical to subtropical climates. |
| Water Storage | Stores water in its underground tubers, allowing it to survive dry periods. |
| Growth Rate | Very fast-growing under warm, sunny, and moist conditions; aggressive spreader. |
| Flowering Time | Typically blooms in spring, with possible light flowering in late summer. |
| Reproduction | Reproduces by seeds and tubers; seeds are wind-dispersed, while tubers can regenerate new growth. |
Table of Contents
How Fast does Cat’s Claw Vine Grow?
Cat’s Claw Vine (Macfadyena unguis-cati) is very fast-growing and can reach more than 30 feet high in just a single season. When temperatures are warm, the sun is strong, and the ground is moist, this plant quickly covers anything it can reach, such as fences, trees, and walls. It spreads quickly, which makes it hard for anyone to control, mainly in areas where it is considered unwanted.
How to Kill a Cat’s Claw Vine?
Cat’s Claw Vine can only be removed by always keeping at it. Cut the vine next to the root and right away treat the vine with a systemic herbicide that has glyphosate or triclopyr. Remove as many roots from the area as possible. It is very important to regularly remove newly grown shoots. Regularly observe the area, as the tubers in the soil can cause the plant to regrow.
Is Cat’s Claw Vine Poisonous to Dogs?
According to ASPCA, Cat’s Claw Vine is considered safe for dogs. Overeating can cause digestive issues. It’s important to keep your pet away from any unfamiliar plants and to see a vet if your pet accidentally eats part of a plant.
How to Propagate Cat’s Claw Vine from Cuttings?
Propagate Cat’s Claw Vine by cutting 6- to 8-inch semi-hardwood stems in late spring or early summer. Take off the bottom half of the stem by leaf, dip the cut end in a rooting solution, and insert it into a well-watered but draining environment. Put the cuttings in a moist spot with indirect light; roots are usually formed in a few weeks.
Do Hummingbirds Like Cat’s Claw Vine?
Yes, hummingbirds are attracted to Cat’s Claw Vine. They like to eat the nectar that comes out of the flower’s trumpet-like shape. This vine is a great option for landscapes because it attracts hummingbirds and bees and makes the place look great, as long as it is planted appropriately.
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