Overview
Cleome bechuanensis Bremek. & Oberm. is an erect, annual herbaceous plant that belongs to the family Capparaceae. This plant is commonly known as the pink spider flower and is indigenous to southern Africa and Madagascar.
Appearance
The pink spider flower has a unique appearance with pink flowers that form a distinctive spider-like cluster at the top of the stem. The flowers have long, thin petals that radiate outwards from the center, giving the appearance of spider legs. The foliage is green and consists of palmate leaves with three to five leaflets. The plant can grow up to 90 cm tall.
Uses
The pink spider flower serves as an ornamental plant that is often grown in gardens or used in cut flower arrangements. The plant's vibrant pink flowers make it an attractive addition to any garden or floral arrangement. The plant is also known for its medicinal properties and is used to treat a variety of ailments, including coughs, colds, and fever.
In traditional African medicine, the plant has been used as a remedy for snakebites and other venomous bites. The entire plant contains compounds such as alkaloids, flavonoids, and tannins, which have been found to have potential medicinal value.
The pink spider flower is also rich in nectar and attracts pollinators such as bees and butterflies.
Cultivation
The pink spider flower prefers well-drained soil and full sun to partial shade. The plant is drought-tolerant and can thrive in hot, dry conditions. It can be propagated from seeds, which can be sown directly in the soil in spring or autumn. The plant can self-seed and may require regular pruning to keep it in check.
The pink spider flower makes an excellent addition to a garden or floral arrangement, and its unique appearance and potential medicinal value make it an intriguing plant to cultivate.
Light Requirements
Cleome bechuanensis Bremek. & Oberm. requires full sun to grow properly. It can tolerate partial shade, but it may not produce as many blooms.
Temperature Requirements
This plant can tolerate a wide range of temperatures, but it thrives in warm temperatures between 65-85°F. It can also tolerate mild frost in the fall, but prolonged frost can damage or kill the plant.
Soil Requirements
The soil where Cleome bechuanensis Bremek. & Oberm. is grown should be well-draining and rich in organic matter. It prefers slightly acidic to neutral soil with a pH between 6.0-7.5. The plant also requires sufficient moisture, but the soil should not be too wet or waterlogged.
Cultivation Methods for Cleome bechuanensis
Cleome bechuanensis Bremek. & Oberm., also called African spider flower, is a subtropical plant that requires lots of sunlight and well-draining soil. It is usually grown as an annual plant, and it can reach up to 1.5 m in height.
To cultivate Cleome bechuanensis, you should start by preparing the soil. Till the soil to a depth of at least 15 cm and remove any weeds or rocks. You can amend the soil with organic matter such as compost or manure to improve the soil structure and promote the growth of beneficial microbes.
After preparing the soil, you can plant the seeds of Cleome bechuanensis directly in the ground. Sow the seeds about 2 cm deep and 20 cm apart. You can also start the seeds indoors about 4-6 weeks before the last frost date and then transplant them outside.
Watering Needs for Cleome bechuanensis
Cleome bechuanensis has moderate water requirements and prefers slightly moist soil. You should water the plant deeply but less frequently to encourage deep root growth.
During the growing season, you should water the plant once or twice a week, depending on the weather conditions. It is better to water in the early morning or late afternoon to avoid evaporation and minimize the risk of leaf burn.
Make sure you do not overwater the plant, as it can lead to root rot and other fungal diseases. You can check the moisture level of the soil by inserting your finger about 5 cm deep into the soil. If the soil feels dry, then it's time to water the plant.
Fertilization for Cleome bechuanensis
Cleome bechuanensis is not a heavy feeder but benefits from regular fertilization. You can use a balanced fertilizer such as 10-10-10 or 20-20-20 once a month during the growing season.
Alternatively, you can apply a slow-release fertilizer at the beginning of the growing season to provide a steady supply of nutrients over time. Make sure you follow the instructions on the fertilizer package and do not over-fertilize, as it can lead to excessive vegetative growth and reduced flowering.
Pruning for Cleome bechuanensis
Cleome bechuanensis does not require extensive pruning but can benefit from deadheading. Deadheading is the practice of removing spent flowers to encourage the plant to produce more blooms.
To deadhead Cleome bechuanensis, simply pinch off the fading flowers just below the base of the flower stem. You can also prune back any leggy or overgrown stems to promote a bushier, more compact growth habit.
Propagation of Cleome bechuanensis Bremek. & Oberm.
Cleome bechuanensis Bremek. & Oberm. is commonly propagated via seeds. However, it can also be propagated via stem cuttings and division of mature plants.
Propagation by Seeds
The best time to sow the seeds of Cleome bechuanensis Bremek. & Oberm. is during spring. Before sowing, the seeds should be soaked in warm water for 24 hours to enhance germination. After soaking, the seeds can be sown in pots or directly in the garden bed. The seeds should be sown at a depth of about 1 cm and the soil kept moist until germination, which usually takes two to three weeks. Once the seedlings are large enough to handle, they can be transplanted in their final location.
Propagation by Stem Cuttings
Stem cuttings can be taken in spring or summer when the plant is actively growing. The cuttings should be about 8-10 cm long and taken from non-flowering stems. Remove the leaves from the lower half of the stem and dip the cut end in rooting hormone powder. Then, plant the cutting in a pot filled with well-draining soil mix and keep it moist until roots develop. Once the roots have developed, which usually takes 4-6 weeks, the plant can be transplanted in the garden.
Propagation by Division
Mature plants can be divided in spring when they start to grow actively. Dig out the plant and separate it into several sections, ensuring that each section has some roots and shoots attached. Replant the sections in a well-draining soil mix and water well. Keep the soil moist until the plants establish themselves in their new location.
Disease and Pest Management for Cleome bechuanensis
Cleome bechuanensis Bremek. & Oberm., commonly known as the African spider flower, is a hardy, drought-resistant plant that is relatively free from serious diseases and pest problems. However, like all plants, it is not immune to attacks from pests and diseases. In order to keep your Cleome bechuanensis healthy and productive, it’s essential to implement good disease and pest management practices.
Common Diseases that Affect Cleome bechuanensis
The most common diseases that affect Cleome bechuanensis are fungal and bacterial infections. The following are some of the diseases that can affect the plant:
Root Rot
Root rot is a fungal disease that affects the roots of the plant, causing them to rot. This can lead to stunted growth, wilting, and death. To prevent this disease from affecting your plant, ensure that the soil is well-draining and not waterlogged. Also, avoid overwatering the plant and provide adequate air circulation around the plant.
Leaf Spot
Leaf spot is a fungal disease that affects the leaves of the plant, causing spots to appear on them. The affected leaves may turn yellow and fall off eventually. To prevent leaf spot, keep the plant dry by watering at the base and avoiding wetting the leaves. Also, ensure that the plant is well-spaced to allow adequate air circulation.
Common Pests that Affect Cleome bechuanensis
Cleome bechuanensis is quite resistant to pests, but there are still some pests that can attack the plant. Here are some of the common pests:
Aphids
Aphids are small, soft-bodied insects that suck sap from the plant, causing stunted growth and distortion of leaves. To control aphids, spray the plant with a strong jet of water to dislodge them. Alternatively, use insecticidal soap or neem oil to control the pests.
Mites
Mites are small arachnids that suck sap from the plant, causing yellowing and curling of the leaves. To control mites, spray the plant with a strong jet of water regularly. You can also use insecticidal soap or neem oil to control the pests.
Whiteflies
Whiteflies are small, winged insects that suck sap from the plant, causing yellowing of leaves and stunted growth. To control whiteflies, use sticky traps to catch the adults. You can also use insecticidal soap or neem oil to control the pests.
By implementing these disease and pest management practices, you can keep your Cleome bechuanensis healthy and productive. Regular monitoring of your plant can help you detect and control any pest or disease infestation early before it causes substantial damage.
