Critically endangered JC's vine found in Cagayan forest

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 — During a recent two-week habitat monitoring survey at Mt. Hamut in Peñablanca, Cagayan, researchers discovered a critically endangered plant species known as JC’s vine, which is also called the purple jade vine or dragon’s spine, a striking wild climber.

The JC’s vine (Strongylodon juangonzalezii) is a woody liana famed for its dense, claw-shaped flower clusters. These unique blooms vividly transition in color from pale lilac to 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.

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