Overview
Cleome heterotricha Burch. is a flowering plant that belongs to the Capparaceae family. It is commonly known as spider flower.
Origins
The plant is native to Southern Africa and can be found growing in various types of soils including sandy and rocky areas.
General Appearance
Cleome heterotricha Burch. is a tall annual herb commonly reaching heights of up to 1 meter. The leaves are compound with 3-5 leaflets. The flowers are typically pink to whitish-pink and appear in clusters at the end of long stalks. The plant blooms from summer to autumn.
Uses
The plant has several uses including as an ornamental plant due to its bright and attractive flowers. It can also be used as a natural insect repellent. In traditional medicine, Cleome heterotricha Burch. has been used to treat various ailments such as heartburn, fever, and stomach pain. In addition, the seeds are known to be edible and can be roasted or eaten raw.
Light Requirements
Cleome heterotricha is a light-loving plant that needs a full sun to partial shade exposure. They require at least 5-6 hours of direct sunlight exposure for healthy growth.
Temperature Requirements
Cleome heterotricha is a warm-season plant that requires warm temperatures to thrive. It prefers a temperature range of 20°C to 30°C. They do not tolerate frost or cold weather and must be planted after the last frost in spring.
Soil Requirements
Cleome heterotricha grows best in well-drained, fertile soil with a neutral to slightly acidic pH. It prefers a soil pH range of 6.0 to 7.0. The plant requires consistent moisture, but it should not be grown in waterlogged soil. Adding organic matter like compost or well-rotted manure helps improve the soil drainage.
Cultivation methods:
Cleome heterotricha Burch. is an herbaceous plant that is grown outdoors in warm regions. It prefers a sunny location with well-draining soil. The plant grows best in soil with a pH of 6.0 to 7.5 and requires full sunlight of at least six hours a day to thrive. Direct sowing in the garden bed is the easiest way to grow this plant.
Watering needs:
The water requirements vary depending on the temperature and humidity of the region, but generally, Cleome heterotricha Burch. requires consistent moisture in the soil. Water the plant once or twice a week keeping the soil slightly moist. Avoid overwatering, which could lead to root rot.
Fertilization:
For healthier growth and vibrancy of the flowers, it is recommended to fertilize Cleome heterotricha Burch. once in a while. The plant requires a well-balanced fertilizer with a higher amount of phosphorus and potassium than nitrogen. Apply a slow-release fertilizer three times a year in spring, mid-summer, and early fall.
Pruning:
Cleome heterotricha Burch. does not need extensive pruning but might benefit from occasional deadheading. It is recommended to deadhead once the flowers start to wilt and die off. This will aid in the promotion of new growth and continuous flowering. Also, it is essential to cut back the plant by half its height at the end of the season to encourage bushier growth and produce more flowers in the following year.
Propagation of Cleome heterotricha Burch.
Cleome heterotricha Burch., commonly known as spider flower, is a hardy annual plant that can be propagated using different methods.
Seed propagation
Propagation of Cleome heterotricha Burch. through seed is the easiest and most common method. Seeds can be collected from mature plants and sown directly in the ground or in seed trays. The best time to sow seeds is during the spring and early summer when temperatures are warm. Seeds should be buried at a depth of about 5 mm and watered regularly to ensure that they receive enough moisture to germinate.
Seedlings should emerge within 10-14 days of sowing. Once they reach a height of about 5 cm, they can be transplanted into individual pots or directly into the ground. Cleome heterotricha Burch. prefers well-draining soil and full sun.
Cuttings propagation
Another method of propagation is through stem cuttings. Softwood cuttings can be taken during the growing season, while hardwood cuttings are taken during the dormant season. Cuttings should be taken from healthy plants and should be at least 8 cm in length.
The cuttings should then be dipped in rooting hormone and planted in well-draining soil. The soil should be watered regularly to ensure that the cuttings receive enough moisture to root. Once the cuttings have rooted, they can be transplanted into individual pots or directly into the ground.
Division propagation
Cleome heterotricha Burch. can also be propagated through division. This method involves dividing the root ball of an established plant into smaller sections. The best time to divide the plant is in the spring, just before new growth appears.
To divide the plant, carefully dig it up and use a sharp knife to separate the root ball into smaller sections. Each section should have its own set of roots and stems. The divided plants can then be replanted in the ground or in individual pots.
Propagation of Cleome heterotricha Burch. is relatively easy and can result in a beautiful and thriving garden. Care should be taken to provide the plant with the right conditions to grow and thrive.
Disease and Pest Management for Cleome heterotricha Burch.
Cleome heterotricha Burch., commonly known as bush cleome, is a beautiful flowering plant native to south-eastern Africa. To maintain the plant's health and longevity, it is essential to manage the common diseases and pests that can affect it.
Common Diseases Affecting Cleome heterotricha Burch.
One of the most significant diseases affecting Cleome heterotricha Burch. is powdery mildew. Powdery mildew appears as a white or grayish powder on the leaves, stems, and flowers of the plant. It can stunt the growth of the plant and reduce flower production.
Another disease that can affect the plant is leaf spot caused by the fungus Cercospora cleomae. It appears as brown or black spots on the leaves, which can cause them to turn yellow and fall off the plant. This disease can weaken the plant and make it more susceptible to other ailments.
Root rot is another common disease affecting Cleome heterotricha Burch. It is caused by excessive moisture and poor drainage. The plant's roots start to rot, and the plant may die if left untreated.
Pest Management for Cleome heterotricha Burch.
Several pests can affect Cleome heterotricha Burch., including aphids, spider mites, and caterpillars. These insects can damage the plant by sucking the sap out of the leaves and stems or chewing on them.
To manage these pests effectively, it is essential to regularly inspect the plant for any infestations. Infested leaves and stems should be pruned away and discarded to prevent the pests from spreading to other parts of the plant. Insecticidal soaps or neem oil sprays can also help control these pests.
Disease Management for Cleome heterotricha Burch.
To manage powdery mildew effectively, it is essential to keep the foliage dry, improve air circulation around the plant, and avoid over-fertilizing. Fungicidal sprays can also help control powdery mildew.
Leaf spot can be prevented by avoiding overcrowding of plants and practicing good sanitation by removing any infected leaves or debris around the plant. Fungicidal sprays can also help control this disease.
To prevent root rot, it is essential to ensure the plant has good drainage and is not overwatered. If the plant does become infected, removing the affected soil and replanting the Cleome heterotricha Burch. into fresh soil can help prevent the spread of the disease.
By regularly monitoring for pests and diseases and taking appropriate measures to manage them, one can ensure the health and beauty of Cleome heterotricha Burch. for years to come.
