Overview
Cleome candelabrum Sims is a species of flowering plant in the family Cleomaceae. It is a woody, perennial herb that is native to Africa.
Common Names
The plant is commonly known as spider flower or candlestick plant, due to the unique appearance of its flowers.
Uses
Cleome candelabrum is occasionally used as an ornamental plant, particularly in xeriscaping and rock gardens. It is also grown as a medicinal plant in some African countries, for its purported ability to treat a variety of ailments, including respiratory infections and skin conditions.
General Appearance
Cleome candelabrum grows up to 1.5 meters tall and has a woody stem that branches near the top. The leaves are compound, with five to seven leaflets, and are arranged alternately along the stem. The flowers are pink, purple, or white, and are borne on long spikes that resemble candlesticks, giving rise to the plant's common name. The seed pods are long and thin, with four to six compartments, and each compartment contains several seeds. The plant blooms from spring to summer.
Light Requirements
Cleome candelabrum Sims requires full sunlight exposure for optimal growth. As a result, it is recommended that the plant is placed in a location that receives at least 6 hours of bright, direct sunlight each day.
Temperature Requirements
The plant prefers warm temperatures ranging from 25 to 30°C for optimal growth. It is sensitive to frost and cannot survive in temperatures below 7°C. In colder regions, it can be grown in a greenhouse or indoor environment to maintain optimal temperature conditions.
Soil Requirements
Cleome candelabrum Sims thrives in well-draining soils with a pH of 6.0 to 7.0. The soil should be rich in organic matter with moderate fertility. It can grow in sandy, loamy or clay soils, but the soil quality must be high for better yields. It is important to avoid overwatering and waterlogging the soil as it can lead to root rot.
Cultivation
Cleome candelabrum Sims, commonly referred to as Spider Flower, is a beautiful plant that is easy to cultivate. It thrives best in well-draining, sandy, and loamy soil. Before planting, prepare the site well by digging the soil to loosen it and add organic matter to improve the soil structure and fertility. Provide sufficient space between plants to allow air circulation.
Watering Needs
Spider Flowers require regular watering to thrive. Water them deeply and thoroughly every week, ensuring the soil is moist all around the root system. During hot weather, increase the frequency of watering to prevent the soil from drying out. Avoid overwatering, as this may lead to root rot and other problems.
Fertilization
Fertilization is crucial in ensuring good growth and flowering of Spider Flowers. Apply a balanced, all-purpose fertilizer every four to six weeks during the growing season. You can also use compost or aged manure to supply the plant with the necessary nutrients. Avoid fertilizing during the winter months when the plant is dormant.
Pruning
Spider Flowers require minimal pruning. Deadhead the spent flowers regularly to promote more blooms and to keep the plant looking tidy. Cut back the plant to one-third of its size after flowering to encourage bushier growth and more flowers. Trim any damaged, diseased, or crossing branches to maintain the plant's health and shape.
Propagation of Cleome candelabrum Sims
Cleome candelabrum Sims, also known as Kenyan spider plant, is a herbaceous perennial native to East Africa. Propagation of this plant can be done through various methods such as by seed or cuttings.
Propagation Methods
Seed Propagation
The easiest and most common way to propagate Cleome candelabrum is from seed.
Collect ripe seeds from the plant after flowering. Allow the seed pods to dry out on the plant before harvesting. Remove the seeds from the pod and store them in a cool and dry place.
To start seedlings, sow the seeds in trays of damp compost and cover lightly with a fine layer of soil. Keep the tray in a warm and bright location, but away from direct sunlight. The seeds usually germinate within 2-3 weeks.
Once the seedlings have developed their second set of true leaves, they can be transplanted to individual pots filled with potting soil. Harden the seedlings off by gradually exposing them to outside conditions before planting them out in their permanent location.
Cutting Propagation
Propagation of Cleome candelabrum can also be done through cuttings. This method is useful for producing new plants that are genetically identical to the parent plant.
Select a healthy and mature stem from the parent plant and cut a 6-inch section just below a node. Strip off the leaves from the lower one-third of the stem and dip the cut end in rooting hormone.
Insert the cutting into a pot filled with a mixture of compost and sand or perlite. Keep it in a warm and bright location, but away from direct sunlight. Mist the cutting regularly and keep the soil moist but not waterlogged.
The cutting should root within a few weeks and can be transplanted to a larger pot or planted out in its permanent location after the roots have fully developed.
Disease and Pest Management for Cleome Candelabrum Sims
Cleome candelabrum Sims, commonly known as the South African spider flower, is a drought-resistant plant that is susceptible to various diseases and pests. However, with proper care and management, it is possible to contain and prevent these problems.
Common Diseases
Powdery Mildew: This disease is caused by a fungal infection and is signified by white powdery spots on the leaves, stems, and flowers. To manage powdery mildew, you can apply organic fungicides, remove the affected leaves, and increase ventilation by spacing the plants further apart.
Botrytis Blight: This fungal infection causes the stem to rot at its base, and infected leaves turn brown and wither. To control botrytis blight, maintain proper moisture levels, promote air circulation, and properly monitor and manage susceptible plants.
Root Rot: This disease is caused by over-watering or poor drainage and results in a yellowing or wilting plant, eventually leading to root failure. To prevent root rot, ensure adequate drainage, avoid over-watering, and remove any infected plant material.
Common Pests
Aphids: Small, soft-bodied insects that pierce the plant tissue to suck its sap, causing curling and yellowing of leaves. To manage aphids, use insecticidal soaps, neem oil, or biological controls such as ladybugs and lacewings.
Cutworms: These are caterpillars that eat the stem of the plant at ground level, causing the plant to fall. To control cutworms, use Bacillus thuringiensis-based insecticides, remove plant debris, or manually search and destroy cutworms.
Spider Mites: Tiny spider-like pests that feed on the plant's sap, and cause yellow or bronzed leaves. To manage spider mites, use insecticidal soaps or neem oil, increase humidity by misting the plants, and maintain adequate water levels.
In conclusion, early detection and proper management of diseases and pests in Cleome candelabrum Sims are essential for its growth and development. Following the prevention and control measures mentioned above can help keep the plant healthy and free from any damage.
