Common Name(s): Cat Claw vine

Synonym(s):

Family: Bignoniaceae

Native To: Central America

Native Habitat: Prefers uniform soil and above 20°F

Growth Habit: Clinging, climbing vine

Flowering: Yellow trumpet shaped flowers

Distinguishing Characteristics: This is a very tenacious vine that aggressively climbs nearly any wall or surface. It is so named for its 3-pronged claw-like climbing appendages. It is usually evergreen, though in the cold it may lose some of its leaves. It is often used for screens or to soften a hard wall appearance in landscaping. Also, cat’s claw gives off an impressive color display in early summer, with its many bright yellow trumpet shaped flowers. A major benefit for Arizona landscaping is that it is drought tolerant, even though it does have a more lush quality with regular irrigation. Its tenacity and hardiness make it very hard to eradicate, if unwanted.

Natural History and Cultivation Notes:

Ethnobotany:

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