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Control: Very Difficult Central and South America
Cat's Claw Creeper
Dolichandra unguis-cati
Cat's Claw Creeper is one of the most damaging environmental weeds in subtropical Australia. This vigorous vine climbs using three-pronged claw-like tendrils and can completely smother trees, eventually killing them. It is a Weed of National Significance and extremely difficult to control.
How to Identify
- Climbing or ground-covering vine with woody stems
- Distinctive three-pronged "cat claw" tendrils
- Compound leaves with two glossy leaflets
- Large yellow trumpet-shaped flowers (8cm long)
- Long flat seed pods up to 50cm
- Forms underground tubers that store energy
Where It Grows
Invades riparian zones, rainforest margins, and disturbed forest. Spreads along waterways and can form dense mats on forest floor.
Environmental Impact
- Smothers and kills mature trees
- Underground tubers make eradication extremely difficult
- Reduces forest canopy and biodiversity
- Fragments easily spread the infestation
- Can collapse tree canopies under its weight
Control Methods
- Small infestations: careful hand removal of all plant parts
- Foliar spray for ground-covering plants
- Cut and paint or scrape and paint for climbing vines
- Must return repeatedly to treat tuber regrowth
- May take 5-10 years of follow-up treatment
- Biological control agents being trialled
Seasonal Activity
Flowers in spring (September-November). Active growth in warmer months.
Professional Weed Control Services
Our experienced team can help you manage and remove invasive weeds from your property. We use forestry mulching and targeted treatments for effective, long-lasting results.