Overview of Cleome eckloniana Schrad.
Cleome eckloniana Schrad. is a perennial herbaceous plant that belongs to the family Capparaceae. It is commonly known as the Pink Spider Flower, or in Afrikaans as the "Vinkblom" or "Koekoeksbloem". This flowering plant's natural habitat is regions of Southern Africa, where it is found in rocky or sandy places and is most prevalent in the Northern and Western Cape.
General Appearance
Cleome eckloniana Schrad. can grow up to a height of 1-1.5 meters, and its leaves are palmately compound with three to nine leaflets. The plant produces a large inflorescence of pink, white or purple flowers, which bloom in the summer months from December to May. The flowers have four large petals, and the stamens are fused at the base, forming a cone shape, which resembles the legs of a spider.
Uses
For centuries, Cleome eckloniana Schrad. has been used in traditional medicine to treat various ailments, such as stomach cramps, coughs, and colds. It is believed that the plant has anti-inflammatory, analgesic, and antimicrobial properties. The plant is also used in cosmetics to make perfumes and moisturizers due to its fragrant flowers. Additionally, it is an attractive garden plant that is commonly used to add color to borders, containers, and rock gardens.
Cultivation and Propagation
Cleome eckloniana Schrad. is relatively easy to grow, and it prefers full sun and well-drained soil. The plant can be propagated from seeds or cuttings and requires moderate watering during the growing season. Once the plant has established itself, it is relatively drought tolerant. The plant will self-seed if allowed to, but it is best to collect the seeds for future planting. It is recommended to cut the plant back after the flowering season to promote healthy growth the following year.
Conclusion
Cleome eckloniana Schrad. is a beautiful and versatile plant that has numerous uses. Its unique and showy flowers stand out in any garden, and it has a myriad of medicinal properties. Whether grown for its beauty or medicinal properties, this plant is an excellent addition to any garden or natural area.
Light Requirements
Cleome eckloniana Schrad. thrives in full sun to partial shade, making it a versatile plant when it comes to light conditions. However, the plant produces more flowers and has a better growth rate in full sun. Therefore, it is advisable to plant it in an area that receives at least 6 hours of direct sunlight per day if possible.
Temperature Requirements
Cleome eckloniana Schrad. prefers warm temperatures ranging between 20-30°C (68-86°F). The plant can tolerate moderately low temperatures of up to 10°C (50°F) without showing any signs of damage or stress, but temperatures below that can be detrimental to its growth. Frost or freezing temperatures can kill the plant; therefore, it is necessary to provide adequate protection during the winter or colder months.
Soil Requirements
Cleome eckloniana Schrad. can grow well in a variety of soil types, including sandy, loamy, or clayey soils. However, it grows best in well-draining soil with a pH range of 6.0 to 7.5. It is advisable to mix the soil with organic matter, such as compost or well-rotted manure, to improve its moisture retention, nutrient availability, and soil structure. The plant can grow in slightly acidic or alkaline soils, but extreme pH values can cause stunting, nutrient deficiencies, or poor plant growth.
Cultivation Methods
Cleome eckloniana Schrad. is a herbaceous plant that grows well in warm climates and requires full sunlight. Therefore, it is recommended to plant it in the spring season when the temperatures are on the rise. The plant can grow in different types of soils but prefers fertile, well-drained soil.
For best results, it is important to spread a layer of compost over the soil before sowing the seeds. The seeds should be sown to a depth of 0.5 inches and spaced around 12 inches apart from each other. It takes around 10 to 14 days for the seeds to germinate.
Watering Needs
Cleome eckloniana Schrad. requires moderate watering, and the soil should not be allowed to dry out completely between watering sessions. Watering should be done once a week in the absence of rain. It is essential to water the plant gently so as not to disturb the seeds or the young seedlings.
Overwatering can lead to the development of root rot, which can kill the plant. Therefore, it is important to allow the topsoil to dry out before watering again.
Fertilization
Cleome eckloniana Schrad. requires fertilization to produce healthy foliage and flowers. A balanced fertilizer with a ratio of 10-10-10 is recommended for this plant. Fertilizer should be applied every four to six weeks during the growing season.
The fertilizer should be spread around the base of the plant and watered well to help it penetrate the soil. Be careful not to over-fertilize the plant, as this can cause burnt foliage and hamper growth and flowering.
Pruning
Cleome eckloniana Schrad. requires minimal pruning to maintain its shape and encourage bushy growth. It is recommended to remove spent flowers regularly to promote continued blooming.
To control the size of the plant, pinch the stem tips when the plant is around six inches tall. This will encourage the plant to branch out, resulting in more flowers.
If the plant has become too leggy, it can be cut back by around one-third to encourage denser growth and more blooms.
Propagation methods of Cleome eckloniana Schrad.
Cleome eckloniana Schrad. is a beautiful flowering plant, commonly known as pink spider flower, that is native to Southern Africa. It is a hardy plant that can be propagated by various methods.
Seed propagation
The most common and easiest way to propagate Cleome eckloniana Schrad. is by seeds. The plant produces large quantities of seeds that can be collected when the seed pods have turned brown and dry. You can then sow them directly in the garden bed or in a seed tray. The optimum time for sowing is in spring or early summer, and the seeds can take 2-4 weeks to germinate.
Cuttings propagation
Another effective way to propagate Cleome eckloniana Schrad. is through stem cuttings. Take 8-10 cm long cuttings from the plant in spring or early summer, strip off the foliage from the lower end and plant the stem in a soil mixture of sand and peat. Ensure that the soil is moist and that the cuttings are protected from direct sunlight. The cuttings will root in 2-4 weeks and can be planted in the garden bed or a larger container.
Division propagation
If you have an established Cleome eckloniana Schrad. plant, you can propagate it through division. In autumn or spring, dig up the plant and separate the root ball into several sections, each with a few shoots. Replant the divisions in well-drained soil, water them well and protect them from direct sunlight until they have established.
With these propagation methods, you can easily propagate Cleome eckloniana Schrad. and enjoy its beautiful pink flowers in your garden or home.
Disease Management
The plant Cleome eckloniana Schrad. is generally healthy but may become susceptible to some diseases that can weaken or kill the plant.
Fusarium Wilt
Fusarium wilt is a soil-borne fungus that enters the plant through its roots, blocking the supply of water and nutrients. Symptoms of fusarium wilt include yellowing of leaves, wilting, and death. To manage fusarium wilt, it is essential to employ preventive measures such as choosing resistant cultivars, removing infected plants and avoiding planting susceptible crops in the same field. Proper soil drainage can also reduce the incidence of fusarium wilt.
Leaf Spot
Leaf spot is a fungal disease that causes yellowing of leaves and the formation of brown spots. To prevent and manage leaf spot, avoid watering the plant from the top and keep the foliage as dry as possible. Remove infected leaves and ensure proper air circulation around the plant.
Pest Management
Aphids
Aphids are tiny insects that suck sap from the plant, causing distortion, and curling of leaves. To manage aphids, spray the plant with insecticidal soap or neem oil. Introducing predators such as ladybugs can also control the population of aphids.
Spider Mites
Spider mites are common pests that feed on the sap of the plant, leading to yellowing of leaves and the formation of webbing. To prevent and manage spider mites, avoid dusty conditions around the plant, mist the leaves frequently, and keep the plant well-watered. You can also use insecticidal soap or neem oil to control spider mites.
Caterpillars
Caterpillars are the larvae of butterflies and moths that feed on the leaves of the plant, causing holes and ragged edges. To manage caterpillars, pick them off the plant by hand and introduce predators like birds and wasps that prey on them.
By following preventive measures and taking action at the first sign of infestation, you can keep Cleome eckloniana Schrad. healthy and productive.
