Overview
Cleome brachypoda Gilg & Gilg-Ben is a flowering plant that belongs to the family of Capparaceae. It is known for its fragrant flowers, unique leaves, and ornamental and medicinal values.
Origin and Common Names
Cleome brachypoda Gilg & Gilg-Ben is native to Eastern Africa and is commonly found in Kenya, Tanzania, and Uganda. It is known by several common names, such as African spider flower, Spider plant, and Bag-pipe tree.
General Appearance
Cleome brachypoda Gilg & Gilg-Ben is a herbaceous plant with a woody base, reaching 50-150 cm in height. It has a stout stem, branched and covered with soft, hairy pubescence. The leaves are alternate, digitately compound, with five to seven leaflets, each about 3-6 cm long, and lanceolate in shape. The flowers are showy, pinkish-purple, and fragrant damped with a sweat scent that attracts insects such as bees, butterflies, and moths. The fruits are cylindroid capsules, about 10 cm long, and remain indehiscent.“
Uses
Cleome brachypoda Gilg & Gilg-Ben is used for ornamental and medicinal purposes. In many cultures, the plant's leaves and flowers are used to make teas that are believed to have medicinal effects such as reducing inflammation and managing asthma. The roots of the plant are also used to treat snakebites and fractures in some African communities. Moreover, the plant's ornamental value is also significant, as it is widely grown as an accent plant in gardens due to its striking flowers, unique foliage, and tolerance to drought and poor soil conditions.
Light Requirements
Cleome brachypoda Gilg & Gilg-Ben. prefers full sun to partial shade. In areas with hot summers, it may require some shade during the hottest part of the day to prevent wilting.
Temperature Requirements
This plant can tolerate a wide range of temperatures but prefers warm temperatures for optimal growth and flowering. A temperature range of 18 to 27°C (65 to 80°F) is ideal. Temperatures above or below that range may impact its growth and flowering.
Soil Requirements
Cleome brachypoda Gilg & Gilg-Ben. can grow in a variety of soils, but it prefers well-drained soil with a pH between 6.0 and 7.5. The soil should be rich in organic matter to support its growth. In areas with heavy clay soil, adding compost or other organic matter can help improve drainage and soil structure.
Cultivation methods
Cleome brachypoda Gilg & Gilg-Ben. is an annual plant that can be easily grown in gardens or pots. It's hardy and drought-resistant, making it an ideal choice for hot and dry climates. The plant prefers full sun to partial shade and well-drained soil. When planting, make sure to leave enough space between each plant to allow for air circulation, as this will reduce the risk of disease. Sow seeds directly into the soil after the last frost has passed or start them indoors six to eight weeks before transplanting.Watering needs
Cleome brachypoda Gilg & Gilg-Ben. requires moderate watering, especially during dry spells. Water the plant deeply once or twice a week, depending on the weather conditions. Avoid overwatering, as this will lead to root rot and other fungal diseases.Fertilization
To ensure healthy growth and good flowering, fertilize Cleome brachypoda Gilg & Gilg-Ben. with a balanced fertilizer once a month during the growing season. Alternatively, you can apply a slow-release fertilizer at the beginning of the season, which will provide nutrients gradually.Pruning
Cleome brachypoda Gilg & Gilg-Ben. doesn't require much pruning, except for deadheading spent flowers. Cut back the stem just above the first set of leaves to encourage bushier growth and more blooms. Deadheading also prevents the plant from reseeding and spreading too much. If the plant becomes too large, you can cut back the stems by one-third to one-half their length to control their size.Propagation of Cleome brachypoda Gilg & Gilg-Ben.
Cleome brachypoda Gilg & Gilg-Ben. can be propagated through various methods. Some of the common propagation methods are:
Seed Propagation
The most common method of propagation for Cleome brachypoda Gilg & Gilg-Ben. is through seeds. The seeds can be collected from mature plants in the fall or purchased from nurseries. The seeds can be sown directly into the ground in the spring or started indoors in pots 6-8 weeks before planting outside. It is advisable to sow the seeds thinly to avoid overcrowding. The seedlings should be transplanted when they are 2 inches tall and spaced at least 12 inches apart.
Cuttings Propagation
Cuttings can also be used to propagate Cleome brachypoda Gilg & Gilg-Ben. During the late spring or early summer, select a stem and plant it in a mixture of sand and peat moss. Keep the cutting moist and in bright light but not direct sunlight. Keep the cutting in a warm, humid location, misting as needed. After four to six weeks, when the roots are established, transplant the cutting to a pot or the ground.
Division Propagation
Cleome brachypoda Gilg & Gilg-Ben. can be divided in the fall, when the plant is dormant. This should be done every few years to prevent overcrowding. To do this, carefully dig up the plant, and divide the root ball into sections with a sharp knife or garden spade. Replant the sections immediately, spacing them at least 12 inches apart, and water thoroughly.
Propagation of Cleome brachypoda Gilg & Gilg-Ben. can be done through these methods. Providing an ideal environment with proper light, temperature, and moisture will result in successful propagation.
Disease and Pest Management for Cleome brachypoda Gilg & Gilg-Ben.
Cleome brachypoda Gilg & Gilg-Ben. is generally a hardy plant that can resist diseases and pests quite well. However, under certain conditions, it can still be susceptible to certain diseases and pests. Here are some of the most common diseases and pests that might affect the plant and some ways to manage them.
Diseases
One of the most common diseases that might affect Cleome brachypoda is powdery mildew. This fungal disease can cause a white powdery coating on the leaves, stems, and flowers of the plant. To manage this disease, it is recommended to reduce humidity by spacing the plants properly, watering at the base of the plants, and avoiding overhead watering. If the infestation is severe, fungicide sprays might be necessary.
Another common disease that might affect Cleome brachypoda is bacterial blight. This disease can cause black spots on the leaves and stems of the plant. To manage this disease, it is recommended to remove and destroy the infected plants, improve the air circulation, and avoid overhead watering. Fungicide sprays might also be necessary.
Pests
The most common pests that might affect Cleome brachypoda are aphids and spider mites. Aphids can cause curled and deformed leaves, while spider mites can cause yellowing and stippling of the foliage. To manage these pests, it is recommended to use insecticidal soaps and oils, to spray the plants with water regularly, and to introduce natural predators like ladybugs and lacewings.
Caterpillars and slugs can also be occasional problems for Cleome brachypoda. Caterpillars can cause holes in the leaves, while slugs can eat the foliage and flowers. To manage these pests, it is recommended to handpick them off the plants, use slug repellents, and use Bacillus thuringiensis (Bt) sprays for caterpillars.
By following these disease and pest management strategies, you can ensure that your Cleome brachypoda plants remain healthy and vibrant throughout the growing season.
