A rare and critically endangered vine, locally known as JC’s vine or purple jade vine (dragon’s spine), was documented at Mt. Hamut in Peñablanca, Cagayan during a Philippine Eagle monitoring expedition—underscoring the rich but fragile biodiversity of the protected landscape. (Photo courtesy of DENR-Cagayan Valley)
TUGUEGARAO CITY, Cagayan — A rare and endemic plant species known as JC’s vine, a striking wild climber also called purple jade vine or dragon’s spine, was discovered during a recent two-week habitat monitoring activity at Mt. Hamut in Peñablanca, Cagayan.
The JC’s vine (𝘚𝘵𝘳𝘰𝘯𝘨𝘺𝘭𝘰𝘥𝘰𝘯 𝘫𝘶𝘢𝘯𝘨𝘰𝘯𝘻𝘢𝘭𝘦𝘻𝘪𝘪) is a critically endangered woody liana distinguished by dense clusters of claw-shaped flowers that shift in color from pale lilac to vivid electric violet.
It was documented by the Philippine Eagle Watch Team, composed of personnel from the Provincial Environment and Natural Resources Office (PENRO) Cagayan, the PENR Sub-Office, and the Protected Area Management Office of the Peñablanca Protected Landscape and Seascape.
Article continues after this advertisement
