Origin
Cleome gallaensis Gilg & Gilg-Ben. is a plant species that originates from Ethiopia. It is typically found in the Galla-Sidamo region of the country, which is situated in the southern highlands.
Common Names
The plant is commonly known as the Galla spiderflower or the Ethiopian cleome. Its scientific name, Cleome gallaensis, is derived from its Ethiopian origins.
Uses
Cleome gallaensis has a variety of uses in both traditional and modern medicine. The plant is often used in Ethiopia to treat a range of ailments, including fever, coughs, and respiratory infections. The seeds are also used to produce an oil that is used in cooking and as a traditional medicine for digestive issues.
In addition to its medicinal properties, the Galla spiderflower has ornamental value due to its unique appearance. Its showy, fragrant blooms in shades of pink, purple, and white can brighten up any garden or landscape.
General Appearance
Cleome gallaensis is an annual herb that grows up to 1 meter tall. It has a slender stem with small, alternate leaves that are made up of three to five leaflets. The plant blooms from July to September and produces long, spindly, branched inflorescences with clusters of fragrant flowers that appear in shades of pink, purple, or white. The fruits are long, slender capsules that contain numerous seeds.
Overall, Cleome gallaensis is a striking plant that is revered for its beauty and medicinal properties. Its hardiness and adaptability make it a desirable addition to any garden or landscape.
Light Requirements
Cleome gallaensis requires full sun to partial shade to thrive. It should be grown in a location that receives at least 4 to 6 hours of direct sunlight per day. Full sun exposure is ideal for the growth of this plant, but it can also tolerate partial shade.
Temperature Requirements
The plant grows best in a warm climate. The temperature range during the growing season should be between 20 and 30°C. It doesn't tolerate frost and should be protected from cold weather. Extreme temperatures can stunt the growth of the plant and even cause it to die.
Soil Requirements
Cleome gallaensis grows best in moist, well-draining soil that is rich in organic matter. The plant can tolerate a range of soil types, including sandy, loamy, or clay soil, as long as it is well-draining. The soil pH should be in the range of 6.0 to 7.5. The plant does not tolerate waterlogged soil, which can lead to root rot.
Cultivation
Cleome gallaensis Gilg & Gilg-Ben. is a perennial plant that grows best in well-draining, sandy soil. It prefers full sunlight but can tolerate partial shade. It can be grown outdoors in USDA hardiness zones 9-12.
When planting, it is recommended to space the seeds or seedlings at least 12 inches apart to allow for proper growth and airflow. Cover the seeds with a light layer of soil and keep them moist but not waterlogged until they germinate.
Watering Needs
Cleome gallaensis Gilg & Gilg-Ben. is a drought-tolerant shrub, so it only requires occasional watering. It is important to avoid overwatering, as this can lead to root rot and other issues.
Water should be provided once the top few inches of soil are dry to the touch. During the summers, watering may be increased slightly, but again, overwatering should be avoided.
Fertilization
Cleome gallaensis Gilg & Gilg-Ben. benefits from regular fertilization, but excessive fertilization can lead to weak growth and disease susceptibility. Use a balanced fertilizer with equal amounts of nitrogen, phosphorus, and potassium, and applied in small amounts every 2-3 months.
In the second year of growth, a slow-release fertilizer can be used to provide sustained nourishment. Follow the manufacturer's instructions for proper dosage.
Pruning
Pruning Cleome gallaensis Gilg & Gilg-Ben. is not necessary to maintain its health, but it can help promote branching and bushier growth. If pruning is desired, it should be done in late winter or early spring while the plant is still dormant.
Dead or damaged branches should be removed with pruning shears, and any crossing branches should also be trimmed. New growth is expected in the spring, and trimming can be done to promote growth where necessary.
Propagation of Cleome gallaensis Gilg & Gilg-Ben.
Cleome gallaensis Gilg & Gilg-Ben. is a popular flowering plant that is native to Ethiopia and is grown for ornamental purposes worldwide. They are generally propagated using plant cuttings and seeds.
Propagation by Seeds
Seeds are the easiest and most popular method of propagation for Cleome gallaensis Gilg & Gilg-Ben. The seeds should be collected after the fruits have ripened and dried up. The collected seeds should be stored in a cool and dry place to maintain their viability. Before sowing, soak the seeds in water for 24 hours to loosen their hard seed coat.
After soaking, sow the seeds in a container filled with rich, well-draining potting soil, keeping them ¼ inch deep. Keep the container in a warm, moist, and bright location. Germination will take place within 7-10 days, and once the seedlings are established, they can be transplanted in individual containers.
Propagation by Cuttings
Cleome gallaensis Gilg & Gilg-Ben. cuttings are typically taken in late spring or early summer for the best results. Cuttings can be taken either from the stem tips or side shoots. The cuttings should be around 3-5 inches long and should be taken from healthy plants with no diseases or pests.
The cuttings should be stripped of any lower leaves and dipped in a rooting hormone before planting them in moist, well-draining potting soil. Cover the container with a plastic bag or a clear plastic cover to maintain high humidity levels. Place the container in a warm, bright, and moist location and keep an eye on the soil moisture and humidity levels regularly.
After a few weeks, roots will form, and once the roots are well-established, transplant them into individual containers. Keep the newly transplanted plants in a bright location but avoid direct sunlight for the first few days.
Disease Management
Cleome gallaensis Gilg & Gilg-Ben. is typically a hardy and disease-resistant plant. However, certain diseases may still affect it under certain circumstances.
One of the most common diseases for this plant is powdery mildew. This is a fungal infection that causes whitish spots on the leaves. Treatment involves removing the affected leaves and applying fungicide.
Another disease that may affect this plant is root rot. This is caused by fungi that thrive in damp soil conditions and can rot the roots of the plant. To manage this disease, the plant should be grown in well-draining soil and not over-watered.
In certain conditions, Cleome gallaensis Gilg & Gilg-Ben. can also develop leaf spot, which is characterized by brownish-black spots on the leaves. Treatment involves promptly removing and destroying the affected leaves.
Pest Management
Although Cleome gallaensis Gilg & Gilg-Ben. is not usually plagued by pests, it can sometimes fall prey to certain insects. One of the most common pests is the mealybug, which feeds on the sap of the plant and causes it to wilt. These pests can be managed by wiping them off with a cloth dipped in soapy water.
Aphids are another common pest for this plant, and they can be removed by using a jet of water from a hose or spraying with insecticidal soap.
Caterpillars can also occasionally feed on the leaves of this plant. Handpicking them off and using a suitable insecticide can help manage this pest.
