Introduction
Cleome africana Botsch. is a flowering plant known for its attractive pink flowers and unique appearance. It is a member of the family Cleomaceae and is native to Eastern and Southern Africa.
Common Names
Cleome africana is commonly known as African spider flower, African bee plant, or African wild cabbage. The plant derives its name from its spider-like appearance, with long, thin petals that resemble spider legs.
Uses
Cleome africana Botsch. has a long history of use in traditional medicine as a remedy for various ailments, including stomach problems and respiratory infections. The plant is also used in African ritual ceremonies and is believed to have spiritual properties. In some parts of Africa, the leaves of the plant are eaten as a vegetable.
General Appearance
Cleome africana Botsch. is an erect plant that can grow up to 1.5 meters tall. It has large, palmate leaves that are deeply divided into three to five leaflets. The plant produces clusters of pink flowers that have long, thin petals and a yellow center. The flowers are highly fragrant and attract a variety of pollinators, including bees and butterflies.
The fruit of Cleome africana is a long, narrow pod that contains numerous small, black seeds. The plant prefers well-drained soil and full sun, and it is commonly found in grasslands, savannas, and forest edges.
Light Requirements
Cleome africana Botsch. is a sun-loving plant that requires at least 6 to 8 hours of direct sunlight each day. It can also tolerate partial shade, but it may not produce as many flowers in such conditions. As such, it is best grown in an area that receives full sun all day long.
Temperature Requirements
Cleome africana Botsch. is native to hot, dry regions and as such, prefers warm temperatures. It can tolerate a wide temperature range from 10 to 36 degrees Celsius. However, the ideal temperature range for its growth is between 20 and 30 degrees Celsius. This plant is sensitive to frost and should be protected during cold weather.
Soil Requirements
Cleome africana Botsch. thrives in well-draining, sandy or loamy soil that is rich in organic matter and has a pH between 6.0 to 7.5. It can also grow in poor soils, but may require additional fertilizer to enhance its growth. It is essential to maintain adequate moisture in the soil as the plant does not tolerate drought well. Overwatering should also be avoided as it can lead to root rot and other diseases.
Cultivation Methods
Cleome africana Botsch. can be grown from seeds in well-drained soil, either indoors or outdoors. The seeds should be sown at least 6-8 weeks before the last expected frost date in the spring. The plant grows well in full sunlight and requires a minimum of 6 hours of direct sun per day. Adequate spacing should be provided between plants to avoid overcrowding. Mulching can help retain soil moisture and control weed growth.
Watering Needs
Cleome africana Botsch. requires regular watering, especially during hot and dry periods. The soil should be kept moist but not waterlogged. Overwatering can lead to root rot and other problems. Inadequate watering can result in stunted growth and poor flowering. Watering should be done at the base of the plant and not on the foliage to avoid fungal diseases.
Fertilization
Cleome africana Botsch. benefits from regular fertilization to promote healthy growth and flowering. A balanced fertilizer with equal parts of nitrogen, phosphorus, and potassium can be applied every 4-6 weeks during the growing season. Alternatively, organic fertilizers such as compost or well-rotted manure can be used to enrich the soil. Fertilizers should be applied according to the manufacturer's instructions to avoid over-fertilization.
Pruning
Cleome africana Botsch. does not require extensive pruning. Deadheading (removing spent flowers) can encourage additional blooms and promote a tidy appearance. Pruning can also be done to control plant size and shape and remove damaged or diseased parts. Pruning should be done in the early spring before new growth begins.
Propagation of Cleome africana Botsch.
Cleome africana Botsch., also known as African spider flower, is a perennial plant that is native to Africa and is widely cultivated in different parts of the world. The plant can be propagated through different methods, including seeds, cuttings, and division.
Propagation by seeds
The easiest and most common method of propagating Cleome africana is through seeds. The plant produces a large number of seeds that can be collected from the dry seed pods after the plant has flowered. Seeds should be sown in the spring in well-drained soil that has been amended with compost or other organic matter. The ideal temperature for germination is around 18-21°C (65-70°F), and the seeds should be covered with a light layer of soil and kept moist until they germinate, which usually takes around 2-3 weeks. Once the seeds have sprouted, they can be transplanted into individual pots or directly into the garden.
Propagation by cuttings
Cuttings can also be used to propagate Cleome africana, although this method is generally less successful than seed propagation. Stem cuttings should be taken in the summer when the plant is actively growing, and the cuttings should be around 4-6 inches long. Remove the leaves from the bottom half of the stem, and dip the cut end into rooting hormone to encourage root growth. The cuttings can then be planted in a well-draining potting mix and covered with a plastic bag to create a humid environment. Keep the soil moist and the cutting in a bright location, but not in direct sunlight. Once roots have formed, the cuttings can be transplanted into larger pots or directly into the garden.
Propagation by division
Cleome africana can also be propagated by division, although this method is best done in the spring or fall when the plant is not actively growing. Divide the plant by carefully digging up the root ball and separating it into smaller sections, each with their own root system and stems. Replant each division into well-draining soil and keep the soil moist until the plant establishes itself.
Overall, Cleome africana can be easily propagated through seeds, cuttings, or division, although seed propagation is the most straightforward and successful method.
Disease and Pest Management for Cleome africana Botsch.
Just like any other plant, Cleome africana Botsch. is susceptible to various pests and diseases. However, with proper disease and pest management, it is possible to maintain optimum plant health and productivity. Here are some common diseases and pests that might affect the plant and ways to manage them:
Diseases
Leaf Spot: Leaf spot is a fungal disease that causes the leaves of the plant to develop brown or black spots. The disease can infect the plant at any stage of growth, but it is more common in wet conditions. To manage the disease, remove any infected leaves and improve air circulation around the plant. You can also opt for fungicides to control the spread of the disease.
Powdery Mildew: Powdery mildew is a fungal disease that causes a white or grey powdery film on the leaves of the plant. The disease thrives in warm and humid conditions. To manage powdery mildew, improve air circulation and reduce humidity around the plant. You can also apply fungicides to control the spread of the disease.
Botrytis Blight: Botrytis blight is a fungal disease that affects the flowers of the plant. The disease causes the flowers to develop a grey mold, which eventually rots. To manage the disease, remove any infected parts of the plant and improve air circulation. You can also apply fungicides to control the spread of the disease.
Pests
Aphids: Aphids are tiny insects that feed on the sap of the plant. They are common in warm and dry conditions. To manage aphids, wash them away with a strong spray of water or introduce natural predators such as ladybugs and lacewings.
Spider Mites: Spider mites are tiny insects that thrive in hot and dry conditions. They cause the leaves of the plant to develop yellow coloration and eventually fall off. To manage spider mites, improve air circulation around the plant and introduce natural predators such as predatory mites.
Mealybugs: Mealybugs are tiny insects that feed on the sap of the plant and leave a sticky substance on the leaves. To manage mealybugs, remove any infected parts of the plant and introduce natural predators such as ladybugs.
By implementing these disease and pest management practices, you can ensure that your Cleome africana Botsch. plant remains healthy and productive.
