Devil's claw

Native American tray
MFA# 1993.723

Native American jar
MFA# 1993.728

Description

An uncommon annual plant (Proboscidea altheaefolia, Proboscidea parviflora) that is native to arid area in southwestern United States. Devil's claw was named for its large seed pods with hooked ends. The mature pods turn black or brown and split open. Fibers from these pods were used for weaving baskets.

Another plant, found in South Africa Harpagophytum procumbens is also called "devil's claw"

Synonyms and Related Terms

Proboscidea altheaefolia; Proboscidea parviflora; black martynia; devil's horn; unicorn plant

Additional Images

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  Devil's claw plant; image credit Burr Williams

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  Devil's claw flower; image credit Burr Williams

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  Devil's claw seed; image credit Terri Cox

Resource and Citations

• Foraging Texas [website]

• Wikipedia: