Origin
Cleome kermesina Kers ex Gilg & Gilg-Ben. var. kermesina is a plant species that belongs to the genus Cleome and the family Cleomaceae. The plant's origin can be traced back to East Africa, where it grows in mountainous regions and open grasslands between 500 and 1800 meters above sea level.
Common Names
The plant is commonly known as the Pink Spiderflower or Pink Cleome. It is also called Jua in Swahili, which means sun, and Oboirien in Maasai, which means a small shrub.
Uses
Cleome kermesina Kers ex Gilg & Gilg-Ben. var. kermesina is used for various purposes. The plant's leaves and stems are used by the Maasai people to treat colds, coughs, and stomach pains. The plant's roots are believed to have anti-malarial properties and are used in traditional medicine.
The plant is also used for ornamental purposes because of its beautiful pink flowers. It is commonly grown in gardens and is used in floral arrangements, adding a touch of color and beauty.
General Appearance
Cleome kermesina Kers ex Gilg & Gilg-Ben. var. kermesina is a multibranched perennial plant that can grow up to one meter tall. The plant has stems that are covered in thin, glandular hairs, giving it a rough texture. The leaves are palmately divided into narrow segments and have long stalks that attach them to the stem.
The flowers of the plant are pink in color and are arranged in long clusters that resemble spider legs, hence the common name Pink Spiderflower. The flowers have four petals and six long stamens that protrude from the center of the flower. The plant produces seedpods that contain small black seeds, which are dispersed by the wind.
Growth Conditions for Cleome kermesina Kers ex Gilg & Gilg-Ben. var. kermesina
Cleome kermesina Kers ex Gilg & Gilg-Ben. var. kermesina, commonly known as the pink spiderflower, is an annual flowering plant native to South Africa. This plant is known for its clusters of vibrant pink flowers that resemble spider legs. Here are some growth conditions that are ideal for the plant to thrive:
Light
Cleome kermesina Kers ex Gilg & Gilg-Ben. var. kermesina requires full sunlight to grow and flourish. It can tolerate light shade, but the plant will produce fewer flowers in such conditions. Ensure the plant receives at least six hours of direct sunlight per day to maximize its growth potential.
Temperature
The pink spiderflower can easily withstand hot temperatures as it is native to the warm climates of South Africa. The plant can grow well in temperatures ranging from 70°F to 85°F (21°C to 29°C). However, it is not well-suited for cold weather as it cannot tolerate frost. The minimum temperature for healthy growth is approximately 50°F (10°C).
Soil
The pink spiderflower prefers well-draining soils that are fertile and rich in organic matter. A slightly acidic to neutral pH level is optimum for the plant. The soil must be moist but not waterlogged, as excessive water can lead to root rot. Adding compost or organic fertilizer can help improve soil quality and promote healthier growth.
Water
Watering the plant regularly is essential, especially during the summer months when the weather is hot and dry. Water the pink spiderflower at least once every week, ensuring the soil is moist but not waterlogged. It is also advisable to water the plant early in the morning or late in the afternoon to avoid scorching the leaves due to the sun's heat.
Other Growth Conditions
Cleome kermesina Kers ex Gilg & Gilg-Ben. var. kermesina is not a heavy feeder, so minimal fertilization is recommended. Applying a balanced fertilizer at planting time can be sufficient for its nutritional needs. Deadheading the plant can also encourage more blooms, and pruning can help keep it from becoming too leggy.
Overall, following these growth conditions will ensure healthy growth and allow the pink spiderflower to produce an abundance of pink blooms throughout the growing season.
Cultivation methods for Cleome kermesina Kers ex Gilg & Gilg-Ben. var. kermesina
Cleome kermesina Kers ex Gilg & Gilg-Ben. var. kermesina is a tropical plant that thrives in warm and humid conditions. It can be easily grown from seed, and prefers a location with full sun exposure for optimal growth.
It is important to prepare the soil before planting by loosening it and incorporating organic matter to improve drainage and fertility. The ideal pH range for the soil should be between 5.5 to 6.5, slightly acidic.
Watering needs for Cleome kermesina Kers ex Gilg & Gilg-Ben. var. kermesina
Cleome kermesina Kers ex Gilg & Gilg-Ben. var. kermesina requires consistent moisture to thrive, but over-watering can lead to root rot. Water the plants regularly, while making sure the soil is well-draining. Checking the top inch of soil with your fingers can help determine if it's time to water. If the soil feels dry, it's time to water.
Fertilization
During the growing season, Cleome kermesina Kers ex Gilg & Gilg-Ben. var. kermesina should be fertilized every two weeks with a balanced, water-soluble fertilizer. Follow the manufacturer's instructions for application and dosage.
Pruning
Cleome kermesina Kers ex Gilg & Gilg-Ben. var. kermesina benefits from regular pruning to promote bushier growth and prolong flowering. Deadheading spent blooms can also encourage continued blossoming. Prune back any unwanted growth or leggy stems to maintain the plant's shape and ensure it stays within its allotted space.
Propagation Methods
Cleome kermesina Kers ex Gilg & Gilg-Ben. var. kermesina can be propagated with the following methods:
Seed Propagation
Seeds for Cleome kermesina Kers ex Gilg & Gilg-Ben. var. kermesina can be planted directly in the ground or in a container with a well-draining soil mixture during the Spring or Summer. Seeds must be covered with a thin layer of soil and kept moist until germination.
Seedlings will emerge within 10-14 days and can be transplanted once they have grown their second set of leaves.
Cuttings Propagation
Cleome kermesina Kers ex Gilg & Gilg-Ben. var. kermesina can also be propagated through cuttings. Take a 4-6 inch cutting from the plant, remove the lower leaves, and dip the cut end in rooting hormone. Place the cutting in a container with a well-draining soil mixture. Keep the soil moist and the cutting in a shaded area. Roots will form in 2-3 weeks.
Once the roots have grown a sufficient amount, the cutting can be transplanted to a larger container or in the ground.
Disease Management
Cleome kermesina var. kermesina is susceptible to fungal and bacterial diseases that are common in other outdoor plants. Common diseases that might affect these plants include powdery mildew, downy mildew, and leaf spot diseases.
To manage powdery mildew, remove infected leaves and increase air circulation by spacing plants appropriately. Use a fungicide spray, such as sulfur, neem oil, or potassium bicarbonate, to prevent further spread of the disease.
Downy mildew can be managed by practicing crop rotation, avoiding overhead irrigation, and providing sufficient air circulation. Use copper-based fungicides to control downy mildew infections in plants.
Control leaf spot diseases by removing infected leaves and providing good sanitation. Avoid overcrowding plants, water at the base of the plant, and use copper-based fungicides to prevent further spread of the disease.
Pest Management
Cleome kermesina var. kermesina is relatively pest-resistant, but occasionally, some pest insects might affect them. The most common pests that might attack Cleome kermesina, include spider mites, aphids, and whiteflies.
Spider mites can be controlled by washing the plant with a strong stream of water. Use miticide if you can’t control them by water spraying. Avoid using insecticides since it can increase spider mite infestations.
Aphids can be managed by spraying plants with insecticidal soap or neem oil. Prune off any heavily infested parts of the plant and consider introducing natural predators such as ladybugs or parasitic wasps.
Whiteflies can be managed by using sticky traps. Prune heavily infested parts of the plant and release natural predators like ladybugs to control their population.
It is essential to monitor the plants regularly, and take prompt actions to manage pests and diseases as early as possible. Early control helps to prevent the spread of pests and diseases to other plants, and it increases the chances of successful management.
