Cat's Claw (Uncaria tomentosa) is a woody vine native to the Amazon rainforest, known for its medicinal properties and distinctive hooked thorns.
At-a-glance light, water, soil, and growing conditions from plant data
High
75% intensity
Prefers full sun to partial shade. Protect from intense afternoon sun in hot climates.
Moderate
50% intensity
Allow soil to dry slightly between waterings; reduce in winter.
Well-drained, loamy
50% intensity
Moderate
50% intensity
Thrives in temperatures between 18-27°C. Protect from frost.
Low
25% intensity
Feed monthly during growing season with diluted balanced fertilizer.
Safety information from plant toxicity data
| Attribute | Value |
|---|---|
| Toxic for humans | No 0/5 intensity |
| Toxic for pets | No 0/5 intensity |
None
Key traits and growing stats from plant data
Watering, pruning, propagation, and repotting details from plant data
Water generously during the growing season (spring to fall), allowing the top 2-3 cm of soil to dry out between waterings. Reduce watering significantly in winter, keeping the soil barely moist to prevent root rot.
Ensure good drainage to avoid waterlogging, as this plant dislikes consistently wet roots.
Prune in late winter or early spring before new growth begins to shape the plant and remove any dead, damaged, or crossing branches. Lightly trim to maintain desired size and encourage bushier growth.
Cat's Claw is a vigorous climber, so regular pruning is beneficial.
Propagate from semi-hardwood cuttings taken in summer or hardwood cuttings in winter. Root cuttings in a well-draining, moist potting mix. Alternatively, seeds can be sown in spring after a period of cold stratification.
Patience is key, as germination can be slow.
Repot young plants annually in spring, and mature plants every 2-3 years, or when root-bound. Use a well-draining potting mix, such as a cactus or succulent blend, amended with some compost.
Choose a pot only slightly larger than the current one to avoid overwatering issues.
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Monthly activity intensity for bloom and fruit across both hemispheres.
Flowering & fruiting calendar
Flowering & fruiting calendar
Photos of Cat's Claw (Uncaria tomentosa)
Where Cat's Claw (Uncaria tomentosa) is found
Density
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Common names and botanical synonyms
Botanical classification
| Rank | Name |
|---|---|
| Kingdom | Plantae |
| Division | Tracheophyta |
| Class | Magnoliopsida |
| Order | Gentianales |
| Family | Rubiaceae |
| Genus | Uncaria |
| Species | Uncaria tomentosa |
Similar in genus Uncaria
Answers based on plant encyclopedia data
