Overview
Cleome chrysantha Decne. is a rather unique and fascinating flowering plant that belongs to the Capparaceae family. It is native to South America, specifically to the countries of Brazil, Paraguay, Argentina, and Uruguay. Its other common names include yellow spider flower, yellow cleome, and golden spider flower.
Appearance
The plant has a net-like, hairy, and somewhat woody stem that can reach a height of up to 2 meters. The leaves are compound and alternate, with 5 to 7 leaflets that are lance-shaped to oblong, have serrated edges, and are around 4-10 centimeters long. The inflorescence of Cleome chrysantha Decne. consists of numerous bright yellow flowers that appear in dense racemes at the end of the stems and have a sweet fragrance. Each flower has 4 petals and 6 prominent stamens that give it a spider-like appearance. The fruit is a slender pod that has a length of 3-10 centimeters and contains numerous tiny, ribbed seeds.
Uses
Cleome chrysantha Decne. has various uses, both medicinal and culinary. In traditional medicine, the plant is used as an antipyretic, a diuretic, a sudorific, and an anti-inflammatory agent, and is also believed to be useful in treating rheumatism, stomach pains, and skin infections. The seeds are edible and are eaten raw, roasted or boiled, and have a nutty flavor. They can also be ground into a flour and used in making bread, cakes, and porridge. The leaves are sometimes used in salads or cooked as a spinach substitute. In addition, Cleome chrysantha Decne. is a popular ornamental plant that is cultivated in gardens and parks worldwide, as its bright yellow flowers add a cheerful touch to any landscape.
Light Requirements
Cleome chrysantha Decne. thrives well in full sunlight and requires at least six hours of direct sunlight each day for optimum growth. It is best to plant this species in an open area where it can access the maximum amount of natural light. Exposure to sunlight also helps in promoting the production of flowers.
Temperature Requirements
Cleome chrysantha Decne. is a heat-loving plant that grows well in hot and dry conditions with temperatures ranging from 65 to 80 degrees Fahrenheit (18-27 degrees Celsius). It cannot withstand frost and will deteriorate if exposed to extreme cold conditions. Ideally, ensure that the plant is kept in a warm environment to protects it from frost damage.
Soil Requirements
The ideal soil for Cleome chrysantha Decne. is well-drained, with a pH range of 6.1 to 7.8. This species is tolerant to a wide variety of soil types, including sandy, loamy, and clay soils, as long as they are not compacted. Ensure that the soil is properly nourished with essential nutrients such as nitrogen, phosphorous, and potassium by supplementing with compost or organic fertilizers. Good soil moisture levels should be maintained, as well as proper drainage to minimize waterlogging issues.
Cultivation methods
Cleome chrysantha Decne., also known as golden spiderflower, can be propagated from seeds or cuttings. The plant grows best in well-draining soil with full sun exposure. It can tolerate partial shade but may not bloom as profusely. Sow the seeds at a depth of 1/8 inch and place them 12-18 inches apart. Water the soil regularly until the seedlings emerge.
Watering needs
Golden spiderflower requires moderate watering and doesn't tolerate standing water or overly moist soil. Water the plant deeply once a week during the growing season, and reduce the frequency during the dormant period. Checking the soil moisture level regularly will help avoid over or under watering.
Fertilization
The plant doesn't require heavy fertilization. Fertilize the soil with a balanced fertilizer once every eight weeks during the growing period. Alternatively, amend the soil with organic compost or well-rotted manure before planting. Too much fertilizer may cause lush foliage growth at the expense of flowering.
Pruning
Golden spiderflower produces long, hairy stems that may require staking to prevent breakage. Prune the plant regularly to control its size and shape. Cut back any leggy stems or damaged foliage to encourage new growth. Deadhead spent flowers regularly to extend the blooming period and promote new blooming. Pruning should be done once every month or as needed.
Propagation of Cleome chrysantha Decne.
There are several methods for propagating Cleome chrysantha Decne., including seeds, stem cuttings, and root cuttings.
Propagation by seeds
The easiest and most common way to propagate Cleome chrysantha Decne. is by seeds. The seeds can be sown directly into the soil in the spring or fall. They should be planted in well-draining soil and should be watered regularly until they germinate. Once the seedlings have sprouted, they can be thinned out to allow space for growth.
Propagation by stem cuttings
Another propagation method for Cleome chrysantha Decne. is by stem cuttings. Cuttings should be taken in the spring or early summer, and should include a node or two. The cuttings should be dipped in rooting hormone and then planted in a well-draining soil mix. Roots should begin to grow in two to four weeks.
Propagation by root cuttings
Cleome chrysantha Decne. can also be propagated by root cuttings. The roots should be dug up in the fall or winter, and should be cut into sections about 2 inches long. The cuttings should be planted in a well-draining soil mix and kept moist until roots begin to grow.
Regardless of the propagation method used, it is important to keep the new plants moist and in a protected area until they have established a strong root system. Once established, Cleome chrysantha Decne. can thrive in a variety of growing conditions and will produce beautiful, unique flowers.
Disease Management
Cleome chrysantha Decne. is a relatively disease-resistant plant, but there are still a few diseases to watch out for:
- Powdery Mildew: This fungal disease appears as a white powder on the plant's leaves. To prevent powdery mildew on Cleome chrysantha Decne., ensure the plant gets enough sunlight and air circulation. Remove infected leaves and use a fungicide if necessary.
- Fusarium Wilt: This soil-borne fungus causes yellowing and wilting of the plant's leaves and stems. There is no cure for fusarium wilt, so avoid planting Cleome chrysantha Decne. in infected soil. To prevent its spread, remove infected plants and sterilize any tools used on them.
- Verticillium Wilt: Another soil-borne fungus, this disease causes yellowing and wilting of the plant's leaves, sometimes accompanied by brown streaks. Remove infected plants and avoid planting susceptible plants in infected soil.
Pest Management
While insect pests are not usually a problem for Cleome chrysantha Decne., there are a few to watch out for:
- Aphids: These small, pear-shaped insects suck the sap from the plant's leaves, causing them to wilt and yellow. Use a strong stream of water to remove them from the plant, or apply insecticidal soap.
- Caterpillars: These larvae of butterflies and moths can eat the plant's leaves and flowers. Handpick them from the plant or use Bacillus thuringiensis (Bt), a bacterial pesticide that affects only caterpillars.
- Leafhoppers: These small, wedge-shaped insects can cause yellowing and curling of the plant's leaves. Remove infected leaves and use insecticidal soap or neem oil on the plant.
