Overview
Cleome amblyocarpa Barratte & Murb. var. amblyocarpa is a flowering plant native to South America, but can also be found in other parts of the world where it has been introduced. It is commonly referred to as the Rocky Mountain Beeplant or the stinking clover.
Appearance
The plant grows up to three feet tall and has thin stems covered in tiny hairs. The leaves are compound, with five to seven leaflets measuring three to eight centimeters long and two to four centimeters wide. Its flowers are small, pinkish or lavender, and grow in clusters at the top of the plant. The flowers have long, protruding stamens that resemble spider legs, giving it a unique and interesting appearance.
Uses
Cleome amblyocarpa Barratte & Murb. var. amblyocarpa is often used as an ornamental plant in gardens or as an attractant for pollinators like bees and butterflies. It is also used in traditional medicine to treat various ailments, such as respiratory infections, fever, and digestive issues. The roots and leaves of the plant are believed to have antimicrobial and anti-inflammatory properties.
Additionally, some Native American tribes used Cleome amblyocarpa Barratte & Murb. var. amblyocarpa as a food source. The seeds were either eaten raw or ground into a flour-like substance and made into a soup or bread.
Despite its uses, the plant can be toxic in large quantities and should be consumed or used in moderation.
Light Requirements:
The plant Cleome amblyocarpa Barratte & Murb. var. amblyocarpa prefers full sunlight or partial shade. It can tolerate direct sunlight for extended periods as long as the temperature is not too high and the soil is kept moist.
Temperature Requirements:
The plant can grow well in a wide range of temperatures. Still, it thrives in warm temperatures between 60-80°F (15.5-26.5°C).
Soil Requirements:
The Cleome amblyocarpa Barratte & Murb. var. amblyocarpa plant requires well-drained soils that are moderately fertile and rich in organic matter. A pH range of 6.0-7.5 is ideal for its growth. While it can grow in various soil types, sandy or loamy soils are best.
Cultivation Methods
Cleome amblyocarpa Barratte & Murb. var. amblyocarpa, commonly known as the spiny spiderflower, grows best in well-draining soil with good fertility. Choose a location that receives full sun to partial shade and has good air circulation. It is recommended to plant it in the late spring or early summer, once the danger of frost has passed. The plant can be propagated from either seeds or stem cuttings.
Watering Needs
Spiny spiderflowers require moderate watering, with soil that is kept consistently moist but not waterlogged. When watering, it is best to avoid getting the leaves wet, as this can cause fungal diseases. Watering early in the morning or late in the evening helps prevent excess moisture buildup and allows time for the foliage to dry before nightfall.
Fertilization
It is essential to fertilize spiny spiderflowers regularly to ensure they receive the nutrients they need. A balanced fertilizer with equal amounts of nitrogen, phosphorus, and potassium can be applied every two weeks during the growing season. Follow the recommended dosage rates on the product label, and avoid over-fertilizing, as this can damage the plant's roots.
Pruning
Pruning Cleome amblyocarpa Barratte & Murb. var. amblyocarpa is essential to stimulate healthy growth, promote branching, and prevent self-seeding. Use sterilized pruning shears to remove dead, damaged, or diseased branches. Prune after flowering to encourage the plant to produce new growth, and pinch back the tips of young plants to promote branching. Deadheading spent flowers is also recommended to prevent the plant from self-seeding and diverting energy away from growing new flowers.
Propagation of Cleome amblyocarpa Barratte & Murb. var. amblyocarpa
Cleome amblyocarpa Barratte & Murb. var. amblyocarpa, commonly known as Rocky Mountain beeplant, is a hardy plant that requires minimal attention. This plant can be easily propagated using various methods:
Seed Propagation
The easiest and most effective way to propagate Cleome amblyocarpa Barratte & Murb. var. amblyocarpa is through seed propagation. Collect seeds from the plant during late summer, when the seed pods have turned brown and dry. Sow the seeds directly in the ground during early spring, or start the seeds indoors during late winter. Plant the seeds at a depth of ¼ inch and keep them well-watered until germination, which typically occurs within two to three weeks.
Cuttings Propagation
Cleome amblyocarpa Barratte & Murb. var. amblyocarpa can also be propagated using cuttings. Take cuttings from the plant during the growing season, making sure each cutting has at least two sets of leaves. Remove the lower leaves and plant the cutting in a pot filled with a well-draining potting mix. Keep the soil moist but not soggy and place the pot in a bright location with indirect sunlight. The cuttings should root within two to four weeks.
Division Propagation
Cleome amblyocarpa Barratte & Murb. var. amblyocarpa can be propagated through division. This method is best suited for mature plants that have become crowded or overgrown. Dig up the plant from the ground and separate the root ball into smaller sections with a sharp knife. Each section should have at least two to three shoots and a healthy root system. Replant the sections in a new location, making sure to water them thoroughly.
Overall, these propagation methods can help spread and preserve Cleome amblyocarpa Barratte & Murb. var. amblyocarpa in gardens, landscapes, and natural habitats.
Disease and Pest Management for Cleome amblyocarpa Barratte & Murb. var. amblyocarpa
Cleome amblyocarpa Barratte & Murb. var. amblyocarpa is a hardy, easy-to-grow plant that thrives in a variety of conditions. However, like any other plant, it can be susceptible to certain diseases and pests. Here are some of the common ones to look out for, and how to manage them.
Diseases
Powdery Mildew
Powdery mildew is a fungal disease that causes a white, powdery coating on the leaves and stems of the plant. It can weaken the plant over time and lead to decreased growth and yield. To manage powdery mildew, reduce humidity levels by spacing plants out and avoiding overhead watering. Fungicides can also be used as a preventative measure.
Downy Mildew
Downy mildew is caused by a fungus-like pathogen that creates yellow or brown patches on the leaves. The disease spreads quickly and can result in leaf drop and plant death. To manage downy mildew, remove affected leaves and promote good air circulation by thinning out the plants. Fungicides can be used if the disease is severe.
Pests
Aphids
Aphids are small, soft-bodied pests that suck the sap from the plant's leaves. This can cause discoloration, stunted growth, and decreased yield. To manage aphids, blast the plant with water to dislodge them or encourage natural predators like ladybugs and lacewings to feed on the pests.
Cabbage Worms
Cabbage worms are the larvae of white butterflies that feed on the leaves of plants like Cleome. They can strip the leaves and stunt the plant's growth. To manage cabbage worms, handpick the larvae off the leaves or apply Bacillus thuringiensis, a naturally occurring bacterium that is toxic to the pests.
By being vigilant and keeping a close eye on your Cleome plant, you can take steps to prevent, manage, and even overcome any potential diseases or pest problems your plant may face.
