Macfadyena unguis-cati     
Cat claw ivy   
Bignoniaceae Family     

Form: clinging, climbing vine

characteristic tendrils of Macfadyena unguis-cati

Seasonality: evergreen, may lose some leaves in cold
Size: to 25ft or greater, with equal spread; aggressively climbs anything
Leaves: double leaf, glossy green, two leaflets per petiole, leaflets 2in long; 3-pronged claw-like climbing appendage
Flowers: solitary, bright yellow, funnel-shaped, short blooming period in early summer
Fruit: very long thin pod, 12-18in long but only 1/2 wide; persistent
Stems/Trunks: tenacious climbing vine
Range/Origin: Central America
Hardiness: handles 20°F

LANDSCAPE VALUE:

• impressive color for short period
• softens walls
• screen

 

Macfadyena unguis-cati in bloom

CULTURAL REQUIREMENTS: Exposure: full sun, part shade, takes heat; best on well-exposed walls Water: natural rainfall okay, drought tolerant; lusher quality on regular irrigation Soil: tolerant, best in uniform soil (sandy or clay) Propagation: seeds, cuttings, or underground tubers Maintenance: moderate; flower drop; self-attaches on almost any wall surface; can be difficult to eradicate

 

Catclaw vine growing on an arch

flowers

NOTES:

aka Cat's claw vine, Yellow trumpet vine
good choice for hot walls

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This page was first created July 6, 2001 and last modified March 14, 2006.

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email to: tmoore1@flash.net

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