Overview of Cleome elegance Briq.
Cleome elegantissima Briq. is a flowering plant species belonging to the family of Capparaceae. It is endemic to Egypt, found in only a few locations in the Eastern Desert. The plant is known by different common names, including Khozam cress and Desert spider flower. It is a perennial herb that typically grows in dry environments, such as sand dunes, desert wadis, and rocky slopes.
Appearance of Cleome elegance Briq.
The plant's stem, which can reach up to 80 cm in height, is pale green and glandular hairy. It has an upright growth habit and is branched at its apex. The leaves are palmately divided with five long, narrow linear segments, and they are pubescent with glandular hairs. The flowers of C. elegantissima have showy, fragrant pink-purple petals with yellow-green anthers. They bloom between February and March when the weather is mild and damp. The plant bears fruit in the form of siliques, which consists of two long slender valves.
Uses of Cleome elegance Briq.
Traditionally, the leaves and flowers of Cleome elegantissima Briq. are consumed raw or cooked as a vegetable by the local people in Egypt. The plant is used in traditional medicine to treat various ailments such as urinary tract infections, jaundice, and rheumatism. Additionally, it is known for its antibacterial and antifungal properties and has been used to treat skin diseases and infections. Additionally, the plant is used in ornamental gardening and can be grown as an annual flowerbed plant even in temperate zones.
Light Requirements
Cleome elegantissima Briq., commonly known as spiderflower, prefers full sun to partial shade. In shaded areas, the plant may grow taller, in search of more light, and produce fewer flowers.
Temperature Requirements
Spiderflowers are hardy in zones 8 through 11, which correspond to average annual minimum temperatures between 10 and 50 degrees Fahrenheit. They thrive in warm weather, with daytime temperatures between 70 and 85 degrees Fahrenheit and nighttime temperatures above 50 degrees Fahrenheit.
Soil Requirements
The ideal soil for Cleome elegantissima Briq. is well-draining, fertile, and slightly acidic to neutral (pH between 6.0 and 7.5). The plant has a taproot that can reach up to 2 feet deep, so it appreciates loose, sandy, or loamy soils that allow water penetration and root development.
The addition of organic matter, such as compost or well-rotted manure, can improve the soil structure and nutrient content. Spiderflower can tolerate some drought but not waterlogged conditions, which may cause root rot and other fungal diseases.
Cultivation
Cleome elegantissima Briq. is a warm-season annual plant that requires proper care during its cultivation. It is best to sow the seeds indoors during early spring and transplant them to their permanent location when the temperature is consistently above 70°F.
For successful cultivation, choose a site that receives full sunlight for at least six hours a day. The soil should be well-draining and rich in organic matter, with a pH range of 6.0-7.5. This plant may not grow well in heavy clay soils.
Watering
Cleome elegantissima Briq. requires regular watering to maintain its growth and health. Maintain the soil moist but not waterlogged. Water the plant when the top inch of the soil is dry. Deep watering will promote deeper root growth and reduce the incidence of pests and diseases. Avoid overhead watering, as it can encourage fungal growth.
Fertilization
Regular application of fertilizer will help Cleome elegantissima Briq. to grow strong and healthy. Apply a balanced water-soluble fertilizer every two weeks during the growing season. Alternatively, opt for a slow-release fertilizer at the beginning of the growing season to ensure a steady supply of nutrients to the plant throughout the season.
Pruning
Pruning Cleome elegantissima Briq. is not necessary, but it can be helpful in shaping the plant and redirecting its energy to more productive growth. Pinch off the tips of the branches to encourage fuller growth and more blooms. Deadhead the spent flowers to promote continuous blooming throughout the growing season.
Propagation of Cleome elegantissima Briq.
Cleome elegantissima Briq., commonly known as spider flower, is a beautiful ornamental garden plant that belongs to the family Capparidaceae. When it comes to propagating this plant, there are several methods available for successful propagation.
Propagation by Seeds
Propagation by seeds is the most popular and easy method for propagating Cleome elegantissima Briq. The best time for collecting seeds is when the pods turn brown, and the seeds inside turn black. Allow the pods to dry on the plant before harvesting them. Sow the seeds directly into the soil in spring or summer. The soil should be moist, and the seeds should be sown at a depth of 1 cm. Germination should occur within 2 to 3 weeks, and the plant will grow vigorously.
Propagation by Cuttings
Propagation by cuttings is another effective method for propagating Cleome elegantissima Briq. The best time for taking cuttings is in spring or summer. Take cuttings from a healthy plant with sharp, clean scissors. Cuttings should be around 15 cm long and should have two to three leaves on the top. Remove the bottom leaves and place the cutting in a container filled with moist soil. Place the container in a shady area, and water it regularly until the cutting starts growing roots.
Propagation by Division
Propagation by division involves separating the roots of an established plant into smaller sections and planting them individually. This method is typically done in the fall when the plant is dormant. Carefully dig up the plant and separate the roots into small sections with a sharp, clean knife. Each section should have at least one stem and a few roots. Replant the sections in well-draining soil, water regularly, and provide the plant with the right amount of sunlight.
Conclusion
Cleome elegantissima Briq. is an easy-to-grow plant that can be propagated by several methods, including seed sowing, cuttings, and division. With the right approach, you can easily propagate this plant and enjoy its beauty in your garden.
Disease and Pest Management for Cleome elegantissima Briq.
Cleome elegantissima Briq., commonly known as spider flower, is a beautiful flowering plant that can add color to any garden. However, like all plants, it is susceptible to diseases and pests. Here are some common problems that might affect the plant and ways to manage them:
Common Diseases
1. Powdery Mildew: This is a fungal disease that appears as a white, powdery substance on the leaves of the plant. To manage it, remove the affected leaves, and improve air circulation around the plant by pruning it regularly. You can also apply a fungicide to prevent further infection.
2. Rust: This is another fungal disease that appears as yellow or orange spots on the leaves of the plant. To control rust, remove the affected leaves, and spray the plant with a fungicide. Ensure that the plant is well-watered and fertilized to keep it healthy.
3. Leaf Spot: This is a bacterial or fungal disease that appears as dark spots on the leaves of the plant. To prevent leaf spot, avoid getting the leaves wet when watering the plant, provide adequate spacing to enable proper air circulation, and apply a fungicide.
Common Pests
1. Aphids: These are tiny, soft-bodied insects that feed on the sap of the plant, causing stunted growth and distorted leaves. To control aphids, spray the plant with a strong jet of water to dislodge them, and apply insecticidal soap or neem oil to kill them.
2. Spider Mites: These are tiny pests that suck the sap from the plant, causing yellowing leaves. To control spider mites, spray the plant with water regularly to increase humidity, and apply insecticidal soap or neem oil to kill them.
3. Whiteflies: These are small, winged insects that suck the sap from the plant's leaves, causing them to turn yellow. To control whiteflies, remove the affected leaves, and apply insecticidal soap or neem oil to kill them.
By being observant, catching issues early, and applying the appropriate pest management techniques, you can prevent or quickly address any problems that might arise with Cleome elegantissima Briq.
