Overview
Cleome kelleriana (Schinz) Gilg & Gilg-Ben. is commonly known as Keller's spiderflower. It is a flowering plant species that belongs to the Capparaceae family. The plant is highly valued for its beautiful flowers and is often cultivated as an ornamental plant in gardens.
Origin
Cleome kelleriana is native to South America, particularly in the countries of Argentina, Bolivia, and Uruguay. It grows in the wild in grasslands, rocky areas, and on disturbed soils.
Appearance
The plant has a characteristic upright and bushy growth habit and can reach a height of up to 60 cm. The leaves are palmately compound and arranged in whorls. They are deeply lobed and have serrated edges. The flowers of Cleome kelleriana are the main attraction of the plant. They are borne on long, slender, green stems and are bright pink in color. The flowers have long stamens that protrude outwards, giving them a spider-like appearance, hence the common name spiderflower.
Uses
Cleome kelleriana is primarily cultivated as an ornamental plant in gardens due to its attractive flowers and foliage. It is also used in cut-flower arrangements. The plant has no significant medicinal or economic uses.
Light Requirements
Cleome kelleriana requires full sun to partial shade to grow optimally. It can tolerate direct sunlight for a few hours a day but prefers to be in a shaded area during the hottest part of the day.
Temperature Requirements
The plant is well adapted to grow in warm to hot temperatures. The optimal temperature range for the plant growth is 21-29°C. It can tolerate temperatures as low as 16°C and as high as 38°C.
Soil Requirements
The plant grows well in well-drained soil that is rich in organic matter. The soil pH should range from slightly acidic to slightly alkaline pH (around 6.0 to 8.0). This plant can tolerate a slightly saline environment with a salinity of up to 4.5 dS/m.
Cultivation
Cleome kelleriana, or pink spider flower, is generally easy to grow and care for. It is a low maintenance plant that thrives in full sun to partial shade and requires well-drained soil. The plant typically grows up to 2-3 feet in height and can spread up to 1-2 feet. It is best to plant Cleome kelleriana in the spring, once the threat of frost has passed.
Watering Needs
Cleome kelleriana has moderate watering needs, and it is important not to overwater the plants as they are susceptible to root rot. Watering the plant deeply once a week is generally sufficient, but the frequency of watering may need to be increased during hot, dry weather. It is important to keep the soil evenly moist rather than wet to support healthy growth.
Fertilization
It is recommended to fertilize Cleome kelleriana once a month during the growing season with a balanced fertilizer. Avoid applying too much fertilizer that could lead to salt buildup, which could damage the plant. Also, ensure to apply the fertilizer around the base of the plant rather than directly on the leaves to avoid damage.
Pruning
Regular deadheading, or the removal of spent flowers, will encourage the plant to produce more blooms throughout the growing season. Cleome kelleriana is typically a self-cleaning plant, which means it naturally drops its dead flowers, but you can still remove the spent blooms with pruning shears to promote vigorous blooms. If the plant becomes too leggy, you can pinch it back during the growing season to encourage bushier growth.
Propagation of Cleome kelleriana
Cleome kelleriana (Schinz) Gilg & Gilg-Ben., commonly known as the pink spider flower, is a beautiful flowering plant that produces stunning pink flowers. Propagation is a great way to expand your garden and make more of this plant. Here are the propagation methods:
Propagation through Seeds
The easiest way to propagate Cleome kelleriana is through seeds. The plant produces pods that burst open, scattering the seeds around. To collect the seeds, wait until the pods are dry and brown, then gently shake them over a paper bag to collect the seeds. To sow the seeds, plant them in the soil, ensuring they are evenly spaced and covered with a thin layer of soil. Water gently and keep the soil moist until the seeds germinate, which takes around 10-14 days.
Propagation through Cuttings
Another way to propagate Cleome kelleriana is through stem cuttings. This method involves taking cuttings from healthy stems and rooting them in soil. Choose a healthy stem with no flowers, as this will produce the best results. Cut a piece of stem about 5-6 inches long and remove the lower leaves. Dip the cut end in rooting hormone, then plant it in a container filled with a mixture of potting soil and perlite. Water the cutting gently and keep it in a shaded area until it establishes roots, which takes around 2-3 weeks.
Propagation through Division
Propagation through division involves separating the roots of an established plant to create new plants. This method is best done in spring or early summer when the plant is actively growing. Carefully dig up the plant, then use a clean, sharp knife or garden shears to separate the roots into smaller sections. Ensure each section has at least one stem and a good amount of roots. Replant the divided sections in well-draining soil and water them gently.
Disease Management
One of the common diseases that might affect Cleome kelleriana is powdery mildew. This fungal disease can lead to the development of a white powdery coating on the leaves, making them appear dusty. To manage powdery mildew, it's important to keep the foliage dry by watering at the base of the plant and not from above. Application of fungicides may also be necessary if the disease is severe.
Another disease that Cleome kelleriana may be susceptible to is leaf spot. This can cause the leaves to become discolored and develop small, dark spots. To manage leaf spot, remove infected foliage and avoid overhead watering. Fungicides can also be used to control the spread of the disease.
Pest Management
Cleome kelleriana may be susceptible to attacks from aphids, spider mites, and whiteflies. These pests can cause damage to the foliage and stunt plant growth. To manage aphids, using a strong spray of water can help dislodge them from the plant. Natural predators like ladybugs and lacewings can also help control the population. Spider mites and whiteflies can be managed with a solution of insecticidal soap.
Another pest that may affect Cleome kelleriana is the caterpillar of the black swallowtail butterfly. While these pests may be seen as beneficial by some, it's important to manage their populations to prevent extensive damage to the plant. Handpicking the caterpillars and relocating them to another area can help control their numbers.
