Overview of Cleome Heterochroma Briq.
Cleome heterochroma Briq. is a flowering plant that belongs to the Cleome genus in the family Cleomaceae. It is commonly referred to as Cleome, Spiny Spider Flower, and Purple Spider Flower. The plant is native to Southeast Asia, specifically in areas of Thailand, Laos, and Cambodia.
General Appearance
The Cleome heterochroma Briq. features a herbaceous stem that can grow from 30 to 100 centimeters tall. Its palmate leaves have stipules and are made up of 3-5 leaflets. The leaves are green, but the stems and branches can be reddish-purple. The plant's inflorescence is a large, showy cluster of white to purple flowers that grow at the end of the stems.
Uses
The Cleome heterochroma Briq. plant has a variety of uses. Its leaves have been traditionally used in Southeast Asia as a vegetable, often cooked and consumed as a dish called "pak wan" in Laos. In addition to its culinary use, the plant has also been used in traditional medicine in Southeast Asia. The leaves have been used to treat various ailments, such as fever, arthritis, and headaches. The plant's seeds are also used in traditional Southeast Asian medicine as a remedy for snake bites.
The Cleome heterochroma Briq. is also a popular ornamental plant due to its showy flowers. It is often grown in gardens and courtyards, and its flowers are used to make flower arrangements.
Light requirements
Cleome heterochroma Briq. is a plant that thrives in full sunlight conditions. It requires at least six to eight hours of direct sunlight exposure daily to grow to its maximum potential. If the plant receives too much shade, it may result in growth retardation, reduced flowering, and straggly plants.
Temperature requirements
The optimal temperature range for growing Cleome heterochroma Briq. is between 21°C to 30°C. The plant does not tolerate frost and extreme temperature changes but can withstand heat to a certain degree. It is important to ensure the plant has enough ventilation if it is grown in hot temperatures as this will help prevent diseases and pests.
Soil requirements
Cleome heterochroma Briq. is not overly picky about the soil type it grows in, but it requires a well-drained, loamy, and fertile soil. The plant can survive in slightly acidic to slightly alkaline soils, with a pH ranging from 6.0 to 7.5. It is essential to add organic matter to the soil to help with moisture retention, nutrients provision, and improve soil structure.
Cultivation Methods
Cleome heterochroma Briq. is a sun-loving plant that thrives in hot and dry conditions. The plant grows best in well-draining soil with a pH level of 6.0-7.0. In preparation for planting, loosen the soil with a garden fork to a depth of at least 30 cm. Plant the seeds 2-3 cm deep and water lightly to prevent soil crusting. Providing a trellis or stake for support is recommended as the plant can grow up to 1.5 meters tall.
Watering Needs
While Cleome heterochroma Briq. prefers well-draining soil, it still needs consistent watering to establish its roots. Water the plant deeply once a week if there is no rain. However, take care not to overwater the plant as it may lead to root rot. Water the plant at the base, avoiding wetting the leaves which can lead to fungal diseases.
Fertilization
Cleome heterochroma Briq. benefits from regular fertilization during its growing season. Incorporate a slow-release fertilizer into the soil at the time of planting or apply a liquid fertilizer every month. Avoid fertilizing the plant too much as this can lead to excessive foliage growth and fewer blooms.
Pruning
Pruning Cleome heterochroma Briq. is not necessary but can promote bushier growth and more compact plants. Pinch out the tips of young plants when they are roughly 10-15 cm tall. Deadhead regularly, removing spent flowers to encourage the development of new blooms. This also prevents self-seeding, which can lead to overcrowding in the following growing season.
Propagation of Cleome heterochroma Briq.
Cleome heterochroma Briq., commonly known as the Rocky Mountain beeplant, is a hardy and drought-resistant plant native to North America. Propagation of Cleome heterochroma Briq. can be done through several means.
Seed Propagation
One of the most common ways to propagate Cleome heterochroma Briq. is through seed propagation. Sow the seeds in pots or directly into the ground in the spring or fall. The plants typically germinate within 7-14 days, and they reach maturity within 60-90 days.
It is best to plant the seeds at a depth of approximately 1/4 inch and space them about 6-12 inches apart. C. heterochroma Briq. prefers well-drained, sandy soil and full sun exposure.
Root Cuttings
Another propagation method for Cleome heterochroma Briq. is through root cuttings. This process is usually done in the spring when the plant is actively growing.
To propagate Cleome heterochroma Briq. through root cuttings, select healthy and mature stems from the parent plant. Cut 4- to 6-inch-long sections of the root and plant them horizontally in the soil. Make sure to keep the soil moist and cover the cuttings with plastic to maintain humidity until they have established roots.
Division
Division is another propagation method for Cleome heterochroma Briq., where mature plants can be divided and replanted in the early spring before the new growth appears. Dig up the plant and carefully separate the clumps of rhizomes, making sure that each division has enough roots to sustain it. Replant the divisions immediately.
Propagation of Cleome heterochroma Briq. is easy and straightforward, and the plant can be an essential addition to any garden or landscape.
Disease and Pest Management for Cleome Heterochroma Briq.
Cleome heterochroma Briq. is a beautiful ornamental plant commonly grown in gardens and landscapes. However, it is not immune to diseases and pests, which can affect its growth, yield, and overall health. Proper disease and pest management practices can help prevent or minimize the damage caused by these issues.
Common Diseases
Cleome heterochroma Briq. can be affected by several diseases, including:
- Downy mildew: Symptoms include yellowing of leaves, fluffy growth on the undersides of leaves, and stunted growth. Manage by removing infected plant parts and avoid overhead irrigation.
- Fusarium wilt: Symptoms include wilting of leaves, yellowing, and stunted growth. Manage by practicing crop rotation, and avoiding overwatering and over-fertilizing.
- Botrytis blight: Symptoms include grayish mold growing on the leaves and stem, and rotting plant parts. Manage by removing infected plant parts, avoiding overhead irrigation and overcrowding.
Common Pests
Cleome heterochroma Briq. can also attract several pests, including:
- Aphids: These small insects can cause curling of new leaves and stunt growth. Manage by spraying with insecticidal soap or neem oil.
- Spider mites: These tiny pests can cause yellowing, stippling, and leaf drop. Manage by spraying with insecticidal soap or neem oil.
- Cabbage loopers: These caterpillars can cause holes in leaves and damage to plant parts. Manage by manually removing them or spraying with Bacillus thuringiensis.
Preventive measures such as proper plant spacing, regular watering, and appropriate fertilization can help minimize the occurrence and severity of diseases and pests. In case of severe infestations, it is best to consult with a professional for appropriate management strategies.
