Overview of Cleome Diandra
Cleome diandra auct. is a species of flowering plant from the family Cleomaceae. It is widely known by several common names, such as Rocky Mountain bee plant, stinking clover, and skunkweed.
Origin of Cleome Diandra
This plant is native to the western United States, specifically Arizona, Colorado, Montana, New Mexico, Oklahoma, Texas, and Wyoming.
General Appearance of Cleome Diandra
Cleome diandra auct. is an annual or biennial herb, growing up to 2-5 feet in height. It is characterized by a single stem that is branched near the top and covered in tiny hairs. Its leaves are palmately divided, consisting of 3-5 leaflets, each about 2-4 inches long.
The blooming period for Cleome diandra auct. starts in early summer and lasts until early autumn. It produces clusters of showy flowers that are pink to lavender in color, and each cluster is composed of 10 to 50 flowers. The flowers are attractive to bees, which is where one of its common names "Rocky Mountain bee plant" originates from. The plant can also emit a strong musky smell, which attracts insects like flies and beetles.
Uses of Cleome Diandra
Historically, Cleome diandra auct. has been used by Native American tribes as a source of food, medicine, and dye. Its seeds can be ground and used as a flour substitute and it can be cooked into a soup or added to stews. Its root can be boiled and used as a tea to treat stomach ailments. The plant's pink and lavender flowers can be used to make natural dyes that range from pale colors to intense shades of red, purple, and pink.
Today, this plant is primarily grown as an ornamental plant in gardens and attracts a variety of pollinators like butterflies, bees, and hummingbirds.
Growth Conditions of Cleome diandra auct.
As a native of South Africa, Cleome diandra auct. grows well in warm and tropical environments. However, it can still grow in cooler temperatures but not below freezing.
Light Requirements
Cleome diandra auct. requires full sunlight to thrive. It needs at least six hours of direct sunlight each day. When grown indoors, it needs bright, direct light. Without sufficient light, the plant may grow tall and spindly.
Soil Requirements
Cleome diandra auct. prefers well-draining soil that stays moist but not waterlogged. The soil should be rich in organic matter, with a slightly acidic to neutral pH level (6.0 to 7.0). It also prefers loamy or sandy soil. Fertilizers can be applied during the growing season to enhance plant growth and promote more blooms.
Water Requirements
Cleome diandra auct. requires moderate watering. It prefers to be well-moistened but not soaked through. Overwatering can lead to root rot and other fungal diseases. On the other hand, underwatering can cause the plant to wilt and potentially die.
Temperature Requirements
Cleome diandra auct. thrives in warm temperatures ranging from 70 to 85°F (21 to 29°C). It can also tolerate cooler temperatures but not below freezing. The plant can be grown as an annual in areas with cooler climates, and as a perennial in warmer regions.
Other Factors
To promote bushier growth, Cleome diandra auct. should always be pruned from the top to encourage new growth. Additionally, the plant can be fertilized with a well-balanced fertilizer every four weeks during the growing season to promote growth and optimal blooming.
Cultivation methods for Cleome diandra auct.
Cleome diandra auct. is a perennial herbaceous plant that prefers to grow in full sunlight. Before planting, prepare a soil mixture consisting of equal parts of loamy soil and compost. Sow the seeds directly into the soil, with a spacing of approximately 30-40 cm between plants.
Watering needs for Cleome diandra auct.
Cleome diandra auct. requires regular watering to promote its growth and maintain a healthy look. Water the plants at least once a week, ensuring the soil is moist but not waterlogged. During the hot and dry season, more frequent watering may be required.
Fertilization for Cleome diandra auct.
One of the essential factors in achieving healthy plant growth is fertilization. Begin feeding the plants three weeks after planting with a balanced fertilizer. For maximum growth and development, use a fertilizer with a high nitrogen content and regularly apply it during the growing season.
Pruning for Cleome diandra auct.
Cleome diandra auct. grows several stems; pruning is crucial to maintain an appealing shape. Cut back the spent flower stems, leaving the healthy foliage at the base. This encourages the plants to branch out and produce new flowers, increasing their overall density and longevity.
Propagation of Cleome diandra
Cleome diandra, also known as spider flower or pink queen, is a beautiful plant that belongs to the Cleomaceae family. Propagation of Cleome diandra can be done through various methods. Here are some propagation methods for Cleome diandra:
Seeding
Seeding is one of the best propagation methods for Cleome diandra. Sow the seeds in a well-draining soil mixture, and keep the soil uniformly moist. The seeds will germinate within 7-14 days. Once the seedlings emerge, transplant them to bigger containers for growth. You can then transfer the seedlings outdoors into the garden bed, after the last expected frost in your region.
Cuttings
Cuttings are another propagation method for Cleome diandra. Take a cutting from a healthy plant, preferably in late spring or early summer. Cut a 3 to 5-inch section, remove the bottom leaves, and dip the cut end into a rooting hormone. Place the cutting into a well-assembled rooting medium. Keep the soil moist and the cutting out of direct sunlight. It will take about four to six weeks for the cuttings to root.
Division
The third propagation method for Cleome diandra is through division. Divide the plant when it outgrows its container or when it becomes root-bound. Lift the plant gently from the soil, and separate the roots into smaller sections. Re-plant each section in a container with fresh planting medium or directly in the ground.
Propagation of Cleome diandra is simple and straightforward. Choose one of the methods that work best for you, and you will have multiplied your plants in no time.
Disease and Pest Management for Cleome diandra auct.
Cleome diandra auct., commonly known as the Rocky Mountain beeplant, is a beautiful flowering plant that is relatively easy to grow. Proper disease and pest management is essential to ensure that the plant remains healthy and produces an abundance of flowers. Here are some common diseases and pests that may affect Cleome diandra auct. and ways to manage them.
Diseases
One common disease that may affect Cleome diandra auct. is powdery mildew. This fungal disease appears as a white, powdery substance on the leaves and stems of the plant. To manage powdery mildew, it is important to provide good air circulation around the plant by spacing it appropriately and avoiding overhead watering. You can also apply fungicides to protect the plant from powdery mildew.
Another disease that may affect Cleome diandra auct. is leaf spot. This disease appears as brown spots on the leaves of the plant. To manage leaf spot, it is important to remove any infected leaves and destroy them. You can also apply fungicides to protect the plant from leaf spot.
Pests
One common pest that may affect Cleome diandra auct. is aphids. These small, soft-bodied insects feed on the sap of the plant and can cause stunted growth and distorted leaves. To manage aphids, it is important to attract natural predators, such as ladybugs and lacewings, to the garden. You can also spray the plant with a strong jet of water to knock off the aphids.
Another pest that may affect Cleome diandra auct. is spider mites. These tiny, spider-like pests feed on the plant's sap and can cause yellowing leaves and webbing to appear on the plant. To manage spider mites, it is important to increase the humidity around the plant by misting it regularly. You can also apply insecticidal soap or neem oil to the plant to control the pest.
By following these disease and pest management tips, you can keep your Cleome diandra auct. healthy and beautiful throughout the growing season.
