Devil's claw (Harpagophytum procumbens)
Care, watering, light and tips for Devil's claw on Floravia.
Quick facts
- Family: Pedaliaceae
- Difficulty: Demanding
- Watering: every 7 days
- Light: Partial shade
- Temperature: 10–30 °C
About Devil's claw
Harpagophytum procumbens, commonly known as Devil's Claw, is a perennial creeping plant native to Southern Africa, famous for its woody fruits with hooked appendages. It features purple to pink flowers and lobed leaves. It's ideal for rock gardens or as ground cover in arid climates.
Native range
Southern Africa (mainly Kalahari Desert)
Care tips
It requires full sun and well-drained sandy soil, as it is very susceptible to waterlogging. Watering should be sparse, allowing the substrate to dry out completely between waterings, especially during its winter dormancy period. Avoid heavy, clayey soils, which will rot its tuberous roots. A common mistake is overwatering, which is fatal for this plant.
How to save a dying Devil's claw
- Warning signs
- Yellowish or brown, wilting leaves, soft stems, no flowering.
- First aid
- Move to partial shade, reduce watering, ensure good drainage, check for pests. 🌿
- What kills it
- Overwatering (root rot) and intense direct sun (scorches leaves).
- Can it be saved?
- Yes, if roots aren't completely rotted. Act quickly.