Contents
Description
Zoopsis, also known as the clawed pepper vine or clawed trumpet, is a climbing plant native to tropical regions of South America. It belongs to the family Bignoniaceae and is known for its unique claw-like flowers that bloom in shades of red, pink, and purple.
Taxonomic Information
| Domain | Eukarya |
| Kingdom | Plantae |
| Phylum | Tracheophyta |
| Class | Magnoliopsida |
| Order | Lamiales |
| Family | Bignoniaceae |
| Genus | Zoopsis |
Appearance
Zoopsis has long, slender stems that can grow up to 30 feet in length. Its leaves are oval-shaped and can be up to 4 inches long. The plant’s unique flowers are claw-like in shape, with a curved tube that opens up into a trumpet-shaped bloom. The flowers can be up to 3 inches long and bloom in shades of red, pink, and purple. The plant also produces long, slender seed pods that can be up to 6 inches long.
Care Guide
Zoopsis prefers moist, well-draining soil and requires regular watering to thrive. It can be fertilized every 2-3 weeks during the growing season with a balanced fertilizer. The plant prefers full sun to partial shade and is hardy in USDA zones 9-11.
Common Pests & Diseases
Zoopsis is relatively pest and disease resistant, but it can be susceptible to spider mites and whiteflies. Regular monitoring and treatment with insecticidal soap or neem oil can help prevent infestations.
Habitat
Zoopsis is native to tropical regions of South America, including Brazil and Peru. It grows in a variety of habitats, including rainforests and savannas.
Question and Answer
Q: Can Zoopsis be grown indoors?
A: Yes, Zoopsis can be grown indoors in a bright, sunny location.
Q: How often should Zoopsis be watered?
A: Zoopsis should be watered regularly, allowing the soil to dry out slightly between waterings.
Q: Does Zoopsis attract pollinators?
A: Yes, Zoopsis is pollinated by bees and butterflies.
Q: Can Zoopsis be propagated from cuttings?
A: Yes, Zoopsis can be propagated from stem cuttings taken in the spring or summer.
Related Plants
- Campsis radicans (trumpet vine)
- Bignonia capreolata (crossvine)
- Tecomaria capensis (cape honeysuckle)
References
- “Zoopsis.” Missouri Botanical Garden, www.missouribotanicalgarden.org/PlantFinder/PlantFinderDetails.aspx?kempercode=c236.
- “Zoopsis.” PlantFiles, www.garden.org/plants/view/118026/Zoopsis/.
- “Zoopsis.” The Spruce, www.thespruce.com/growing-clawed-pepper-vine-1902831.
