Overview
Cleome kermesina Kers ex Gilg & Gilg-Ben var. plebeia Kers is a flowering plant that belongs to the Cleomaceae family. This plant is also referred to as Cleome plebeia, Cleome nitida, and African spider plant.
Origin
Cleome kermesina Kers ex Gilg & Gilg-Ben var. plebeia Kers is native to South Africa and can be found growing in a wide range of habitats. These habitats include grasslands, savannas, and rocky areas.
General Appearance
The African spider plant is a fast-growing annual plant that can reach a height of up to 3 feet (1 meter). The leaves are compound, with 3 to 7 leaflets that are oblong in shape. The plant produces showy pink to red flowers that bloom from summer to fall. The flowers have long, thin petals that form a spider-like appearance, which gives the plant its common name.
Uses
The African spider plant is commonly used as a garden ornamental plant because of its showy flowers and easy cultivation. In addition, the plant is known to have medicinal properties and is used to treat various ailments in traditional medicine. The leaves and stems are also edible and are often used as a vegetable in some parts of Africa.
Light Requirements
Cleome kermesina Kers ex Gilg & Gilg-Ben. var. plebeia Kers typically thrives in full sunlight or partially shaded areas. It requires at least 6 hours of direct sunlight to grow efficiently and produce flowers. If it receives too much shade, blooming can be delayed, and the plant growth can be stunted.
Temperature Requirements
For optimal growth, Cleome kermesina Kers ex Gilg & Gilg-Ben. var. plebeia Kers prefers a temperature range of 20 - 27 °C (68 - 81 °F). It is sensitive to frost and extreme temperatures. If the temperature goes below 10 °C (50 °F), it can damage the plant severely and even kill it. Therefore, it is best to grow this plant in areas with warm temperatures.
Soil Requirements
The ideal soil type for Cleome kermesina Kers ex Gilg & Gilg-Ben. var. plebeia Kers is well-draining soil that contains essential nutrients. The pH level of the soil should be between 5.5 to 7.5. It can grow adequately in different soil types such as sandy, loamy, or clay, as long as the soil is moist and well-drained. Adding compost or organic matter to the soil enhances the water retention capacity and nutrient availability, which improves the growth and health of the plant.
Cultivation
Cleome kermesina Kers ex Gilg & Gilg-Ben. var. plebeia Kers is a fast-growing annual plant that thrives in warm and humid conditions. It requires full sunlight to grow well, and it is best grown in fertile, well-drained soils. This plant is relatively easy to cultivate, and its seeds can be sown directly into the garden soil.
Watering Needs
The watering needs of Cleome kermesina Kers ex Gilg & Gilg-Ben. var. plebeia Kers largely depend on the prevailing weather conditions. During the hot and dry season, this plant requires frequent watering to keep the soil moist and prevent wilting of the leaves. On the other hand, during the rainy season, the plant's watering schedule can be reduced because of the high moisture content in the soil.
Fertilization
This plant does not require much fertilizer. However, the addition of compost or organic fertilizers during planting can provide the necessary nutrients for healthy growth. When using chemical fertilizers, ensure that the NPK ratios are balanced.
Pruning
Pruning is not necessary for Cleome kermesina Kers ex Gilg & Gilg-Ben. var. plebeia Kers. However, removing spent flowers can encourage more blooms. Pinching back the tips of young plants can also foster bushier growth.
Propagation of Cleome kermesina var. plebeia
Cleome kermesina var. plebeia is a hardy plant that can be propagated through various means such as seeds, cuttings, and division.
Propagation by seeds
To propagate Cleome kermesina var. plebeia using seeds, you need to collect the seeds from the ripe fruit pods. Once you have obtained the seeds, plant them in good quality soil and moisten them regularly. The soil should be kept moist but not waterlogged. Ensure that the seeds are placed in a sunny location for better germination rates.
Propagation by cuttings
Cleome kermesina var. plebeia can also be propagated through cuttings. The cuttings should be taken from healthy plants and should be around 10-15cm long. Cut just below the node and remove the lower leaves leaving only the top two leaves. Dip the cuttings at the base in rooting hormone powder and place them in good quality soil. Maintain high humidity by covering the cuttings with a plastic cover or a cloche. Once the cuttings have rooted, they can be transplanted to a suitable location.
Propagation by division
Propagation by division can be carried out on mature plants during the early spring season. Carefully dig up the plant and then divide it by pulling or cutting it into sections. The separated plants can then be replanted in suitable locations. Regular watering should be carried out to ensure that the plants establish well in their new positions.
Disease and Pest Management for Cleome kermesina Kers ex Gilg & Gilg-Ben. var. plebeia Kers
Cleome kermesina Kers ex Gilg & Gilg-Ben. var. plebeia Kers is a beautiful plant that deserves proper care. However, like any other plant, it can be affected by diseases and pests. Here are some common diseases and pests that can affect this plant and some suggestions for their management.
Diseases
Powdery Mildew: This disease is characterized by the appearance of a white powdery substance on the leaves, stems, and flowers of the plant. It is caused by fungal spores and can be managed by avoiding overhead watering, improving air circulation around the plant, and removing infected plant parts. Fungicidal sprays can also help control the spread of this disease.
Leaf Spot: Leaf spot is caused by a fungus that leads to the appearance of small brown or yellowish spots on the leaves of the plant. The spots can spread and cause defoliation if not managed promptly. To prevent leaf spot, it is recommended to avoid overhead watering and to keep the area around the plant clean and free of debris. Fungicidal sprays may also be helpful in controlling this disease.
Root Rot: Root rot is caused by fungal pathogens that attack the roots of the plant, causing them to rot and eventually leading to the death of the plant. To prevent root rot, it is important to avoid overwatering and to use well-draining soil. If the plant is already showing signs of root rot, take action immediately by removing the affected parts of the plant, improving drainage, and using fungicidal sprays to control the spread of the disease.
Pests
Aphids: Aphids are small, soft-bodied insects that feed on the sap of the plant and cause distortion of the leaves and flowers. They can be controlled by removing them with a strong stream of water, introducing natural predators such as ladybugs or lacewings, or using insecticidal soaps and oils.
Spider mites: Spider mites are tiny insects that can cause damage to the plant by sucking the sap and leaving a mottled appearance on the leaves. They can be controlled by improving the humidity around the plant, removing affected plant parts, and using insecticidal soaps or oils.
Caterpillars: Caterpillars are the larval stage of moths and butterflies and can cause damage to the plant by feeding on the leaves and stems. They can be controlled by manually picking them off the plant, introducing natural predators such as birds or introducing insecticidal bacteria.
By implementing these disease and pest management strategies, you can keep your Cleome kermesina Kers ex Gilg & Gilg-Ben. var. plebeia Kers healthy and thriving.
