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Dolichandra unguis-cati
SKU 6104
During summer, Water daily or when the soil starts to become slightly dry at the top. During Winter season water once in 2 days or when the soil starts to become slightly dry at the top. Keep the soil lightly moist at all times, but do not overwater as this will cause brown spots and leaf drop. Curly or dry leaves suggest, the plant is dry and needs watering. Water in the early morning or late evening when temperatures are cooler. Always check your soil before watering.
During summer season keep the plants in shaded area and during winter season plants can withstand direct/indirect light.
During summer season or when the temperature is above 45°C place the plant in shaded area. During winter season or the when the temperature is below 45°C the plants can be directly placed in direct/indirect sunlight.
Apply liquid fertilizer or slow release fertilizer once in 15 days. Always fertilizer the plants during the morning hours when the temperature is low. For best results use Folikraft ready to use Outdoor Plant Food / Flower Booster.
Plant Bio
Dolichandra unguis-cati, commonly known as Cat's Claw Creeper or Cat's Claw Vine, is a fast-growing tropical vine prized for its attractive foliage and showy flowers. Here's a detailed description and care guide for Dolichandra unguis-cati:
Description:
Foliage: Cat's Claw Creeper has glossy, dark green leaves that are compound and pinnate, consisting of several pairs of leaflets and a terminal leaflet. The leaflets are lance-shaped and have pointed tips, resembling the claws of a cat, hence the common name.
Flowers: The vine produces clusters of tubular, trumpet-shaped flowers that are typically orange-yellow in color with reddish markings. The flowers are borne in abundance during the warm months, attracting pollinators such as bees and butterflies.
Growth Habit: Dolichandra unguis-cati is a vigorous and sprawling vine that climbs and clings to support structures using tendrils or aerial roots. It can quickly cover fences, arbors, and trellises, providing shade and privacy.
Size: The vine can reach lengths of 20 to 30 feet (6 to 9 meters) or more in favorable growing conditions. Pruning may be necessary to control its size and shape.
Form: Cat's Claw Creeper has a dense and bushy growth habit, with branches spreading outward and upward as it climbs. It can form a thick mat of foliage when grown as ground cover.
Care Tips:
Sunlight:
Cat's Claw Creeper thrives in full sun to partial shade. Provide it with at least 4-6 hours of direct sunlight daily for optimal growth and flowering.
In hotter climates, some afternoon shade can help protect the plant from intense sun and heat.
Temperature:
This vine is best suited for tropical and subtropical climates. It can tolerate a wide range of temperatures but prefers warm conditions.
Protect Cat's Claw Creeper from frost and freezing temperatures, as prolonged exposure can damage or kill the plant.
Watering:
Water Cat's Claw Creeper regularly to keep the soil consistently moist but not waterlogged. Water deeply, allowing the soil to dry out slightly between waterings.
Reduce watering during the winter months when the plant's growth slows down.
Soil:
Plant Cat's Claw Creeper in well-draining soil that is rich in organic matter. A loamy or sandy soil mix with good drainage is ideal.
Amending the soil with compost or aged manure can improve soil fertility and structure.
Fertilization:
Feed Cat's Claw Creeper with a balanced, slow-release fertilizer in spring, just before the start of the growing season. Follow the manufacturer's instructions for application rates.
Additional fertilizer applications may be beneficial during the growing season to promote vigorous growth and flowering.
Support:
Provide a sturdy support structure such as a trellis, arbor, or fence for Cat's Claw Creeper to climb and cling to. Ensure the support is strong enough to withstand the weight of the vine as it grows.
Train the vine to climb the support structure using twine or soft ties, guiding it as needed.
Pruning:
Prune Cat's Claw Creeper as needed to control its size and shape, remove dead or damaged branches, and encourage bushier growth.
Regular pruning can help prevent the vine from becoming too leggy or invasive.
Pest and Disease Control:
Cat's Claw Creeper is relatively resistant to pests and diseases, but it may occasionally be affected by issues such as aphids, scale insects, or powdery mildew.
Monitor the vine regularly for signs of pests or disease and treat any problems promptly with appropriate insecticides or fungicides.
By following these care tips, you can enjoy the beauty and vigor of Dolichandra unguis-cati in your garden or landscape, adding color, texture, and vertical interest with its lush foliage and vibrant flowers.
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