Uncaria guianensis aka Cat's Claw

Uncaria guianensis is an evergreen vine in the Rubiaceae family. Its common names include cat's claw and uña de gato. Its native range runs from Trinidad into tropical South America. It grows in Brazil, the Guianas, Venezuela and Colombia. Its range also includes Ecuador, Peru, Bolivia and Paraguay. It grows in the wet tropics, chiefly in forests that regrow after damage. Most plants grow on low ground. They reach heights above sea level of about 3,280 feet [1,000 metres].

This fast-growing vine can reach 98 feet [30 metres] tall. PFAF lists its spread as about 1.6 feet [0.5 metres]. It climbs through nearby plants rather than standing alone. Strong spines curve back and grip plants for support. These hooked spines give cat's claw its common name. It keeps its leaves all year. The supplied sources also show flowers and ripening seed capsules. They give no bloom season or details of the flowers.

In gardens, it needs a sunny site and moist soil. Forest edges give it the kind of light it can use. PFAF states that it does not grow in shade. Sand or loam suits it if water drains well. Its preferred soil pH runs from 4.4 to 6.2. PFAF also says it can grow in neutral soil. That source places it in USDA zones 10–12. The vine needs nearby plants to support its climb.

Growers can raise plants from fresh seed or stem cuttings. Seeds lose the power to sprout soon after they ripen. Cuttings about 0.7 feet [0.2 metres] long can root in moist forest soil. Stems need at least eight years before harvest. Those who harvest leave a short stump so the vine can regrow. The light wood has a pink-brown tone and coarse texture. People use the stems to make furniture.

The stems yield sap that people can drink. It has a thin, puckering taste. People drink it to ease thirst and restore strength. Stem bark also has a long history in herbal medicine. Uses include joint pain, stomach ulcers, urinary complaints and asthma. People also use washes on wounds and skin. These uses do not prove that treatment is safe or works. The sources report no known hazards. They do not show that the plant is safe for pets. They give no facts on specific pests or diseases.