Overview
Cleome briquetii Polhill, also known as Briquet's Spiderflower, is a flowering plant that belongs to the Cleomaceae family. This plant is indigenous to Eastern Africa, specifically in areas such as Kenya and Tanzania.
General Appearance
The Briquet's Spiderflower can grow up to 4ft tall and is considered an annual or biennial plant. Its leaves are alternate, and they have a palmate shape with three to five leaflets. These leaves can grow up to 8 inches long and are green in color, with each leaflet measuring about 2-4 inches long. Its flowers appear in clusters at the top of the stems and have a pinkish-lilac color. They bloom from early summer until fall and have a fragrant scent.
Common Names
Besides being called Briquet’s Spiderflower, Cleome briquetii Polhill is often referred to as Briquet's Caper or Briquet's Beekeeper.
Uses
The plant is not just visually appealing, but also has different uses, depending on the country in which it is grown. In Kenya, the roots are believed to have medicinal properties, and it is used to treat various health conditions like malaria. In some African countries, the plant is of enormous economic importance since it is cultivated for its oil and fiber, which can be used in the production of soap.
Growth Conditions for Cleome briquetii Polhill
Light Requirements: Cleome briquetii Polhill thrives in full sun to partial shade. It is adaptable to a variety of light conditions, but it grows best in bright, direct sunlight.
Temperature Requirements: Cleome briquetii Polhill is a warm-weather plant that cannot tolerate frost. It grows best in temperatures ranging from 60-75°F (15-24°C). When temperatures rise above 85°F (30°C), this plant may experience significant stress.
Soil Requirements: Cleome briquetii Polhill prefers well-draining soils. It can tolerate poor soils but does not tolerate standing water. The ideal soil pH for this plant is between 6.0 and 7.5.
Watering Requirements: Provide Cleome briquetii Polhill with moderate watering. It should not be allowed to dry out completely, but excessive watering can lead to root rot. The plant requires regular watering during its growth period, which is from spring to early autumn.
Fertilizer Requirements: Cleome briquetii Polhill does not require a lot of fertilizer. A dose of a balanced slow-release fertilizer in early spring should be sufficient. Too much fertilizer can cause excessive growth and reduce the plant's flowering potential.
Other Considerations: Cleome briquetii Polhill is relatively resistant to pests and diseases, but it can attract spider mites and caterpillars. Regular inspection and timely treatment can help keep these pests at bay. Deadheading spent flowers can encourage more flowering.
Cultivation Methods
Cleome briquetii Polhill, commonly known as spider flower, is a warm-season annual plant that is quite easy to cultivate. To grow these plants, you need to select a sunny location with well-drained soil. This plant prefers soil with a pH of between 6.0 and 7.5. It is advisable to sow the seeds directly into the garden after the last frost date in spring. Make sure to plant the seeds at a depth of 1/4 inch into the soil.
When planting, space the seedlings 6-12 inches apart as they will spread up to 2-3 feet when fully grown. It is also essential to ensure that the plants are protected from harsh winds as they tend to snap or break quickly.
Watering Needs
Spider flower plants require moderate watering. Proper watering should be done in the morning or late afternoon to avoid creating a wet environment that may lead to fungal diseases. During hot, dry weather, these plants require more frequent watering. However, it would be best if you avoided overwatering as it may lead to root rot and other plant diseases.
Regular watering helps maintain the plant's health and prevents the soil from drying out; hence ensuring proper nutrient uptake by the plant.
Fertilization
Cleome briquetii Polhill requires regular fertilization to thrive. A high nitrogen fertilizer will ensure the plant has adequate nutrients to produce lush foliage and vibrant flowers. You should fertilize the plants during the growing period, about every 4-6 weeks. For best results, apply the fertilizer 6 inches away from the stem, then water the plants thoroughly to ensure complete absorption.
It's worth noting that over-fertilizing can lead to excessive growth, making the plants leggy and unable to support their weight, hence the need to avoid fertilizer burn.
Pruning
Pruning spider flower plants is not a must, but it can help to maintain their shape and promote bushier growth. For the best results, you should pinch back the tips of the plants when they reach 8-12 inches tall, encouraging side branching and fuller growth.
You should also regularly deadhead the flowers to remove spent blooms, which can help prolong the blooming period. This process will also provide a cleaner and tidy appearance to the flower bed.
Propagation of Cleome briquetii Polhill
There are several ways to propagate Cleome briquetii Polhill. Some of the most common methods include dividing, cuttings, and seed germination.
Dividing
Dividing is a simple and effective method for propagating Cleome briquetii Polhill. This method involves taking a mature plant and dividing it into two or more sections. Each section should have roots and shoots, and can be planted directly into soil. It is important to water the newly planted sections regularly to help them establish roots.
Cuttings
Cuttings are another way to propagate Cleome briquetii Polhill. This method involves taking a stem cutting from a mature plant and placing it in soil or water until roots form. Once the cutting has developed roots, it can be planted directly into soil. Keep the soil moist and be sure to provide plenty of light to help the plant establish itself.
Seed Germination
Seed germination is the most common method for propagating Cleome briquetii Polhill. This method involves collecting seeds from mature plants and planting them in soil. It is important to plant the seeds in well-draining soil and to keep the soil moist until the seeds germinate. Germination usually occurs within 10-14 days, and once the seedlings have developed two to three leaves, they can be transplanted into larger pots or directly into the ground.
Disease and Pest Management for Cleome briquetii Polhill
Cleome briquetii Polhill, commonly known as African Spider Plant, is a hardy and resilient plant that can survive in a wide range of soil and climatic conditions. However, like all plants, it is vulnerable to various diseases and pests that can significantly reduce its health and vigor. Here are some common diseases and pests that might affect Cleome briquetii Polhill and ways to manage them.
Common Diseases
Fungal Diseases: Cleome briquetii Polhill is susceptible to a wide range of fungal diseases, including powdery mildew, botrytis blight, and rust. Powdery mildew is the most common fungal disease that affects this plant, characterized by a white or gray powdery coating on the leaves and stems. Botrytis blight and rust appear as brownish spots on the leaves and stems, leading to wilting and stunted growth.
Pest Infestation: Apart from fungal diseases, Cleome briquetii Polhill is also vulnerable to various insect pests, such as spider mites, aphids, and whiteflies. These pests can severely damage the plant, leading to yellowing of leaves, curling, and wilting. They also attract other pests and diseases and can quickly spread to other plants in the vicinity.
Pest Management Techniques
Fungal Control: To prevent fungal diseases, it is crucial to maintain proper hygiene and sanitation in the growing area. Make sure to prune or remove infected or dead plant parts immediately and clean the pruning tools before and after use. Avoid watering the plants from above and instead water at the base to prevent the leaves' wetness, which encourages fungal growth. In case of severe infestation, use fungicides specified for the infection type and follow the recommended dosage and application methods.
Pest Control: To manage insect pests, it is essential to detect and address them early. Regularly inspect the plant for any signs of infestation, such as yellowing of leaves, webbing, and tiny whiteflies or aphids on the leaves. Use insecticides labeled for the pest type and avoid using broad-spectrum insecticides that can kill beneficial insects. Alternatively, use natural remedies like neem oil, garlic spray, or insecticidal soap to control pests.
With proper care and management techniques, Cleome briquetii Polhill can thrive and produce abundant blooms for years, adding beauty and color to your garden.
