Devil's Claw, Unicorn Plant

Okay, so this plant isn't for everyone. The plant itself
tends to be floppy as summer ends, even drooping on
the ground....Read More />
The claws are very useful in various crafts. By pushing
the stem end of one claw into the center of the split from
another claw, continuing until a ring is formed, you will
create quite an interesting conversation piece.

Proboscidea parviflora var. hohokamiana
have hooks which are longer than standard black seeded
Devil's Claws.

The seeds can be a bugger to germinate, but only if
you don't meet their basic requirements. Soil temperature
must be warm, and while moisture works wonders, soggy
soil won't cut the mustard.

I often soak the seeds overnight, then use a fingernail
clipper to cut just enough of the pointed end of the
seed to allow the seed meat to emerge, puffy and
ready to be planted approximately 1/2" deep in full sun,
well drained soil.

Please note, as the plant tends to fall when it grows
larger bearing claws, the claws can often fall off, hiding
in the grass. You do not want to accidentally grab one
of these or step on one with bare feet. The claws have
such a hook on the ends which will puncture and curve
as it enters. Very painful!

Easy from seed . The immature pods tast like greenbeens and the mature black pods are very usefull in dried flower arangements.

According to several sources, this variety was cultivated by the Tohono O’odham in the mid- to late-1800s, although it was also grown i...Read Moren the Hokokoman area as early as the 1600s. It is still grown by many native tribes for food and basket-making. It is differentiated from the species by its white (versus black) seeds, which are easier and faster to germinate; and by its longer, softer (and therefore more desirable) fibers, used in basket-making.

The same Perdita bee that pollinates P. altheaefolia visits this variety, but not the species.