Proboscidea louisianica
TAXONOMY
FamilyMartyniaceae
GenusProboscidea
Zone8
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Proboscidea louisianica, commonly known as Devil's Claw or Unicorn Plant, is an annual plant native to the southwestern United States and northern Mexico. It is known for its distinctive seed pods that resemble claws or hooks. The plant thrives in subtropical climates and is part of the Martyniaceae family.
ALSO KNOWN AS
Devil's Claw
Martynia Alternifolia
Martynia louisianica
Martynia proboscidea
Proboscidea cordifolia
OVERVIEW
VPDCalculate
WaterDry
SoilLoamy
LightDirect Bright (6 Hours)
Temperature25° C
Humidity60%
GDD1,800
pH6.5
Pressure1,013 mbar
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DETAILS
Care Instructions
Devil's Claw prefers full sun and should be placed in a location where it can receive bright, direct light for several hours a day. It thrives in warm temperatures and moderate humidity. Water the plant when the soil is almost completely dry, but avoid overwatering.Harvest
Proboscidea louisianica, commonly known as Devil's Claw, should be harvested when the seed pods are still young and tender, typically around 60-90 days after planting. The pods should be picked before they become too tough and woody. Harvesting is usually done by hand, and it is important to wear gloves as the plant can be sticky and may cause skin irritation. The best time to harvest is in the morning when the pods are crisp and fresh. Ensure to handle the pods gently to avoid bruising.Soil
Proboscidea louisianica prefers well-draining loamy soil. Ensure the soil is not waterlogged, as the plant does not tolerate excessive moisture. A mix of garden soil with sand or perlite can improve drainage.Fertilizer
Use a balanced fertilizer with an N-P-K ratio of 10-10-10. Fertilize the plant every 4-6 weeks during the growing season to support its growth and flowering.Repotting
As an annual plant, Proboscidea louisianica does not typically require repotting. However, if grown in containers, ensure the pot is large enough to accommodate its growth and has good drainage.Propagation
Devil's Claw can be propagated from seeds. Sow the seeds directly in the soil after the last frost date. Ensure the soil is warm and keep it moderately moist until germination occurs.Pruning
Pruning is not generally required for Proboscidea louisianica. However, you can remove any dead or damaged leaves to maintain the plant's appearance.Toxicity
Proboscidea louisianica is not known to be toxic to pets or humans. However, the seed pods can be quite sharp and may cause minor injuries if handled carelessly.Additional
The seed pods of Devil's Claw have been used traditionally in basket weaving and as natural hooks. The plant can also attract pollinators such as bees and butterflies, making it a beneficial addition to gardens.REVOLUTIONIZE YOUR PLANT CARE
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