Doubleclaw (Proboscidea parviflora)

Also known as: Devil's Claw, Unicorn Plant

Proboscidea parviflora is coated with fine hairs all over its stems, leaves, and flowers, giving it a "sticky" texture that clings to animals or humans passing by. Additionally, the plant's dried seedpods, known as doubleclaws, were traditionally utilized in basket weaving by Native American communities.

In This Article

Care Tips Water Sunlight Temperature Soil Fertilize Prune Propagation Repotting

Attributes of Doubleclaw

Lifespan

Annual

Plant Type

Herb

Plant Height

60 cm to 90 cm

Spread

90 cm to 1.2 m

Leaf Color

Green

Flower Size

2.5 cm to 5 cm

Flower Color

White Yellow Pink Purple

Images of Doubleclaw

Quickly Identify Doubleclaw

Identify Proboscidea parviflora by its deeply lobed leaves, large pink to lavender flowers, and prominent claw-like fruit pods. The plant typically grows in sandy or disturbed soils.

Scientific Classification of Doubleclaw

Phylum

Vascular plants

Class

Dicotyledons

Order

Lamiales

Family

Unicorn plant

Genus

Proboscidea

Species

Doubleclaw

Planting and Growing of Doubleclaw

Care Difficulty

Easy

Watering Schedule

Every 2 days

Sunlight Requirements

Full sun

Sunshine Duration

4-8 hours

Ideal Temperature

75-85℉

Soil Type

Potting Mix, Peat Mix

Soil pH

6.5-7.5

Fertilizer Type

Balanced

Pruning Season

Spring, Summer

Pruning Area

Branches, Leaves

Pruning Frequency

2 times a year

Repotting Season

Spring

Pot Type

Ceramic, Plastic

How to Water Doubleclaw?

For Proboscidea parviflora, it's crucial to water deeply but infrequently. You want to ensure that the soil is soaked to a depth of about 8 to 12 inches, supporting the plant's deep root system without waterlogging it. This allows the roots to access moisture further down, which is critical in their native semi-arid environments.

What are the symptoms of an underwatered Doubleclaw? ›

What should I do if my Doubleclaw is not getting enough water? ›

What are the symptoms of an overwatered Doubleclaw? ›

How to save an overwatered Doubleclaw? ›

What Are the Sunlight Requirements for Doubleclaw?

Sunlight Requirements: Full sun, Partial sun

Duration of light: 6-8 hours

Proboscidea parviflora thrives in full sun to partial sun conditions. Such light provides ample energy for photosynthesis, resulting in vivid blooms and stronger plant tissues. Proper exposure aids its natural growth cycle and reduces susceptibility to diseases.

What is the best type of sunlight for Proboscidea parviflora? ›

What if I can't provide full sun exposure? ›

How does ideal lighting affect its growth? ›

More About Sunlight Requirements Techniques→

What Is the Ideal Temperature Range for Doubleclaw?

Ideal Temperature: 75 ~ 85℉

Proboscidea parviflora thrives best in temperatures ranging from 75 to 85 degrees Fahrenheit. This temperature range offers optimal conditions for growth, ensuring robust foliage and healthy development. Maintaining these temperatures promotes effective photosynthesis and nutrient uptake.

What Soil is Best for Doubleclaw?

Soil type: Sandy loam, Loam

Soil PH: 6.5 ~ 7.5

Proboscidea parviflora thrives in well-draining soil conditions. This type of soil prevents waterlogging, thereby protecting the plant's roots from rot. Ensuring good drainage also helps in maintaining proper root aeration, promoting healthy plant growth. This plant benefits from soil enriched with organic matter. Nutrient-rich conditions support its growth by providing essential minerals necessary for robust development and flowering, leading to a healthier plant overall. Proboscidea parviflora does not require excessively fertile soil, which can lead to overgrowth and weakened stems. Moderate fertility is ideal, providing sufficient nutrients without overwhelming the plant.

How to Fertilize Doubleclaw?

Fertilizer type: Balanced

Proboscidea parviflora requires a balanced approach to fertilization. Use a diluted liquid fertilizer with a concentration of 1/4 teaspoon per gallon of water. For slow-release granules, distribute 2 tablespoons per square foot of soil around the base.

How to Prune Doubleclaw?

Pruning Time: Spring, Summer, Autumn

Begin by identifying any dead, damaged, or diseased stems and branches. Use sharp pruning shears to cut these back to healthy tissue. Always make your cuts just above a leaf node or bud to encourage new growth. Trim back any wayward or excessively long branches to maintain the desired shape of the plant. Regularly assess the plant to determine if further pruning is necessary to keep its shape and promote air circulation among the branches. More About Pruning Techniques→

How to Propagate Doubleclaw plant?

Propagate Time: Spring, Early spring, Late spring

Start by filling seed trays with a seed starting mix. Sow the Proboscidea parviflora seeds on the surface of the soil and lightly cover them with a thin layer of mix. It is vital to ensure the seeds are not buried too deeply as they require light for germination.

Keep the soil consistently moist but not waterlogged. Use a spray bottle to mist the surface regularly. Avoid overhead watering, which can displace seeds or cause fungal issues.

Once the seedlings have at least two sets of true leaves, they are ready to be transplanted. Carefully move them to larger pots or their final garden position, ensuring they are spaced adequately to avoid overcrowding.

How to Repot Doubleclaw plant?

Repotting frequency: Every 1-2 years

Proboscidea parviflora should be repotted when its roots start peeking out of the drainage holes, signaling a need for more space. Additionally, if the plant becomes top-heavy or growth appears stunted, these are also strong indicators it's time for a new pot.

Select a pot that is 2-3 inches larger in diameter than the current one to provide ample space for growth. Opt for terracotta or ceramic pots with drainage holes, as these materials offer excellent aeration and help prevent root rot.

Use a well-draining sandy soil mix to mimic its native environment and ensure proper drainage. This will prevent waterlogging and root rot, promoting healthier and more vigorous plant growth.