Origin:
Cleome jonesii (J.F. Macbr.) Tidestrom is a plant species that is native to North America. Specifically, it is found in the high-altitude regions of Arizona and New Mexico.
Common Names:
Cleome jonesii is commonly known as Jones' spiderflower or Jones' cleome. Other common names include scorpion-weed and rock-pink.
Uses:
While Cleome jonesii does not have a significant history of use in traditional medicine, its seeds and leaves have been used by Native Americans to make a yellow dye for their clothes.
In modern times, Cleome jonesii is primarily cultivated as an ornamental plant for its unique appearance and beautiful pink flowers. It is commonly used in xeriscaping, a landscaping method that involves designing gardens to conserve water.
General Appearance:
Cleome jonesii is a herbaceous perennial plant that grows to a height of 12-24 inches. It has green, sparsely-arranged leaves on long petioles that can be up to 8 inches long. The plant's stems are hairy and slightly sticky to the touch.
Cleome jonesii produces stunning flowers in the summer months. The flowers are pink and have a distinctive shape, with long stamens that give them a spider-like appearance. The flowers are about 1 inch in diameter and grow in clusters at the ends of the stems.
Overall, Cleome jonesii is a beautiful and unique plant that adds a touch of wildness and color to any garden or landscape.
Light Requirements
For optimal growth, Cleome jonesii needs full sunlight exposure. The plant requires at least six hours of direct sunlight daily. Lack of sunlight can cause the plant to grow tall and spindly, with weak stems and leaves.
Temperature Requirements
Cleome jonesii is a desert plant, and it thrives in warm climates. The ideal temperature range for the plant is between 68 and 86 degrees Fahrenheit (20 and 30 degrees Celsius). If the temperature falls below 50 degrees Fahrenheit (10 degrees Celsius), the growth of the plant may be affected.
Soil Requirements
Cleome jonesii requires well-draining soil to grow and thrive. The plant can adapt to different soil types, provided that the soil is not waterlogged. The pH of the soil should be between 6.0 and 7.5. The plant prefers soils that are sandy or loamy and can tolerate soils with low fertility levels.
Cultivation
Cleome jonesii is a perennial plant that is native to North America and primarily grows in dry, rocky soils in mountainous regions. To cultivate this plant, you must mimic its natural habitat by planting it in well-draining soil and in a location with full sun exposure.
Cleome jonesii prefers a soil pH between 6.0 and 7.5, so it's crucial to check the soil's acidity levels before planting. If the soil is too acidic, you can add lime to increase the pH level. Ensure that the plant has enough space to grow, with a distance of 2 to 3 feet between each plant.
Watering Needs
Cleome jonesii thrives in dry soils and does not require frequent watering. It can tolerate drought conditions, but it's essential to water it sparingly during the growing season. Overwatering the plant can lead to root rot and other fungal diseases, which can be detrimental to the plant's health. You can water the plant every 2 to 3 weeks, depending on the soil's moisture levels.
Fertilization
Cleome jonesii does not require excessive fertilization. Over-fertilizing the plant can lead to excessive growth, which can make it vulnerable to pests and diseases. You can add a slow-release fertilizer to the soil during the growing season to provide essential nutrients to the plant. Avoid fertilizing the plant during its dormant season, as it won't be able to absorb the nutrients.
Pruning
Cleome jonesii does not require extensive pruning. You can remove any dead or damaged parts of the plant by cutting them off with a pair of clean, sharp shears. Regular pruning can promote healthier growth and increase the plant's longevity. Ensure that you sterilize your pruning shears before use to prevent the spread of diseases.
Propagation Methods
The propagation process for Cleome jonesii can be achieved through both seed and vegetative methods, but the former method is the easiest and most commonly used.
Seed Propagation
Propagation of Cleome jonesii through seed requires patience and attention to detail. Seeds should be collected when the seed pods dry and begin to split open, yet not so late that they spill out of the pod. Around late summer to early autumn is the ideal an optimal harvest timing.
Once seeds have been collected, they must be properly stored in a cool dry place for optimum germination rates. Seeds do not need any special treatment prior to planting, and they can be sown directly on the soil surface after the danger of frost has passed in spring. Seeds should be spaced around 25-30 centimeters apart and covered lightly with soil or sand.
It is also possible to germinate Cleome jonesii seed indoors by planting the seeds in moist soil and placing them in a bright area at a constant temperature of around 18-20°C. This can help the seeds sprout faster, which is helpful if planting outside in the spring is not possible.
Vegetative Propagation
Cleome jonesii is not commonly propagated vegetatively. The process involves taking stem cuttings during the growing season and planting them in fresh, moist soil. However, this process can take more time than seed propagation and has a lower success rate.
If you choose to use the vegetative propagation method, take cuttings from the tips of established plants and remove the lower leaves, leaving only a few nodes of leaves near the shoot tip. Place the cuttings in a well-draining soil mix and keep them moist, but not waterlogged. Place them in bright, indirect light and provide consistent temperatures of around 20°C. After around 3-4 weeks, the cuttings should begin to produce roots and new shoots.
Disease and Pest Management for Cleome jonesii
Cleome jonesii, also known as Jones’ spider-flower, is a rare plant species found only in rocky slopes and canyons in Utah, Nevada, and Arizona. While the plant has adapted to thrive in harsh, arid environments, it is still vulnerable to certain diseases and pests.
Common Diseases
Cleome jonesii is susceptible to several fungal diseases, including powdery mildew, anthracnose, and rust. Powdery mildew appears as a white or gray powdery coating on the leaves, stems, and flowers of the plant. Anthracnose causes brown or black spots on the leaves and stems, and can cause the plant to wilt and die. Rust appears as yellow or orange spots on the leaves, and can also cause the plant to wilt and weaken.
Disease Management
To manage fungal diseases in Cleome jonesii, it is important to remove and destroy any infected plant material immediately. Prune affected areas, making sure to disinfect your pruning tools after each cut. Avoid overhead watering, as this can promote fungal growth. Instead, water at the base of the plant, taking care not to wet the leaves. Applying a fungicide can also be effective in preventing and treating fungal diseases.
Common Pests
Cleome jonesii is also vulnerable to insect pests, such as aphids, spider mites, and whiteflies. These pests suck sap from the leaves, causing them to turn yellow, curl, and drop prematurely. The pests can also transmit viruses to the plant, further weakening it.
Pest Management
To manage insect pests in Cleome jonesii, it is important to monitor the plant regularly for signs of infestation. Use a powerful spray of water to dislodge any insects from the plant. Remove heavily infested plant material and destroy it immediately. Releasing natural predators, such as ladybugs or lacewings, can also be effective in controlling pests. Applying an insecticidal soap or oil can also help to manage insect infestations.
By being vigilant and taking preventative measures, it is possible to minimize the risk of disease and pest infestations in Cleome jonesii, helping it to thrive in its harsh natural environment.
