Cat's claw herb (Uncaria rhynchophylla)

Cat's claw herb

Cat's claw herb (Uncaria rhynchophylla) is an evergreen woody vine that is equally at home growing out along the ground or climbing up trees and fences. It is native to southern China, Vietnam and Japan. Cat's claw herb's stem is hollow and can be used as a siphon.

Scientific classification

Species

Cat's claw herb (Uncaria rhynchophylla)

Gentians, dogbanes, madders, and allies

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Perennial

Lifespan

Vine

Plant Type

Yellow, Pink

Flower Color

Evergreen

Leaf type

Images of Cat's claw herb

Distribution of Cat's claw herb

Distribution Map

Cat's claw herb is indigenous to East Asia, where it thrives across temperate regions. Its natural range spans the easternmost parts of the continent, adapting to various local climates. Despite originating in Asia, cat's claw herb has not been notably introduced or naturalized in other continents or major regions, remaining mainly within its endemic boundaries.

Native

Cultivated

Invasive

Introduced

No species reported

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Habitat

Sparse forests or thickets at streamsides in valleys

Hemisphere Trend Curve

Northern

Sorthern

Care Guide for Cat's claw herb

Every 3 weeks

Water

Partial sun

Sunlight

Water: Originating from humid forested areas, cat's claw herb thrives in high humidity and needs consistent moisture without waterlogging. Water every three weeks to support its moderate drought tolerance. Primarily grown outdoors, cat's claw herb benefits from rainfall patterns that align with its growth cycles.

Fertilize: Cat's claw herb requires balanced nutrition with bi-monthly fertilizer during active growth. High nitrogen in spring and summer promotes foliage. Use quarter-strength solutions to avoid over-fertilization, adjusting feeding in fall and halting in winter. Monitor cat's claw herb for optimal health and growth enhancement.

Pruning: Cat's claw herb thrives with early spring pruning to manage growth and enhance vigor. Trim overgrowth and remove weak branches for better air circulation and sunlight access. Cut above a node for new shoots. Regular pruning boosts aesthetics and plant health; refer to horticultural guides for best practices.

Propagation: Cat's claw herb is propagated from fresh seeds sown in well-draining soil. Germination needs adequate moisture and warmth, while avoiding fungal infections is crucial. After germination, seedlings thrive in dappled sunlight to replicate their natural understory conditions.

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Images of Cat's claw herb

Distribution of Cat's claw herb

Care Guide for Cat's claw herb

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