A semi-vining shrub in the Fabaceae (Legume) family, native to the Southwestern U.S and northern Mexico. In California it is found in the Mojave Desert and on the eastern side of the the Peninsular Range in desert transition chaparral. Befitting the name "CatClaw", this plant has barbed points that can easily cause torn clothing or injury to passers-by, and as such the plant should not be placed in areas with heavy foot traffic.
During mid-Spring through mid-Fall, this plant acts as a pollinator magnet; yielding countless yellow-cream colored, oval-shaped flowers that produce a plethora of nectar- attracting hummingbirds and countless butterflies. Shortly after flowering, the fruits transition into a series of seed pods that feed surrounding wildlife, such as chipmunks and woodpeckers, and small bird species. The beautiful, mahogany-colored wood of this shrub is also fire-resistant.
CatClaw (Senagalia greggii)
•Provides habitat and shelter for wildlife thanks to its thorns and dense structure.
•Flowers attract pollinators like bees, and the seed pods feed birds and small mammals.
•Deep roots help stabilize soil in arroyos (dry creek beds) and other erosion-prone spots.
•Light: Needs full sun.
•Soil: Prefers sandy or rocky, very well-drained soils.
•Water: Extremely drought tolerant once established; young plants may need occasional deep watering.
•Size & Habit: Usually 6–15 ft tall, sometimes up to 20 ft in ideal conditions, with a shrubby or small-tree form.
•Care Tips: Minimal care required; prune carefully if shaping is needed. Best suited for large, open spaces due to its thorny nature.