Appearance
Cleome luederitziana Schinz is a fascinating plant that belongs to the Capparaceae family. Its stem grows up to 50 cm high, and it typically has a sprawling or decumbent growth habit. The plant boasts thorny branches up to 20 cm long, which are covered with glandular hairs and sit close to the ground. The leaves are alternate, petiolate, and palmately compound with 5-7 lobes. The herbaceous perennial plant has eye-catching pink flowers produced in racemes, standing tall above the foliage.
Origin and Common Names
Cleome luederitziana Schinz is a native southern African plant that occurs in Angola, Namibia, and South Africa. It is commonly known as "Namaqua spiderwort" or "Luderitz spider-flower." This plant occurs principally in arid and semi-arid lands. It gets its name from Luderitz, a coastal town on the Atlantic coast of Namibia, and Namaqua, a semi-desert region lying within South Africa and Namibia.
Uses
The Namaqua spiderwort has various uses. The plant is used locally in traditional medicine to alleviate chest pains, while the Namibian people use it for treating wounds and sores. The Namaqua spiderwort is also used to make a poultice, the decoction of which can help to fight respiratory illnesses such as cold, cough, flu, and asthma. It is also an ornamental plant that can be grown in pots or planted in gardens, providing a beautiful landscape for gardens.
Overall, Cleome luederitziana Schinz's unique appearance and traditional uses make it an essential plant, both medicinally and in gardens and landscaping.Light Requirements
Cleome luederitziana Schinz thrives in areas with abundant sunlight. It requires bright light for an extended period to grow successfully. Ideally, the plant should receive six to eight hours of full sun daily. Without enough sunlight, the plant will look spindly, and the flowers may not bloom correctly.
Temperature Requirements
Cleome luederitziana Schinz requires moderate temperatures that mimic its natural environment. The ideal temperature range for the plant is between 20°C to 25°C during the day and 10°C to 15°C at night. Extreme temperatures can cause severe damage to the plant, with temperatures below 5°C leading to frost damage.
Soil Requirements
Cleome luederitziana Schinz requires a well-draining soil that is rich in organic matter. The soil should also be mildly acidic with a pH range of 5.6 to 7.5. The plant prefers sandy loamy soils that are well aerated, and it does not grow well in heavy clay soils that retain water. It is essential to maintain the soil's fertility level by regularly adding organic fertilizers to ensure sustainable growth.
Cultivation methods for Cleome luederitziana Schinz
Cleome luederitziana Schinz is a desert-adapted plant that thrives best in well-drained soils. It is ideal for outdoor cultivation in warm, dry climates, such as the arid regions of Southern Africa.
The plant prefers full sun exposure and can tolerate high temperatures. For optimal growth, sow the seeds in spring or early summer, as they require warm soil to germinate.
Watering needs for Cleome luederitziana Schinz
Cleome luederitziana Schinz is a drought-tolerant plant that requires minimal watering. Water the plant only when the soil is completely dry, as excessive moisture can cause the roots to rot. When watering, pour the water directly onto the soil, avoiding the leaves and flowers.
During the dry season, water the plant once a week. However, reduce watering during the rainy season, as the plant can absorb sufficient moisture from the precipitation.
Fertilization of Cleome luederitziana Schinz
Cleome luederitziana Schinz thrives in nutrient-poor soils and does not require frequent fertilization. However, you can add proper fertilizers, such as compost, in the soil before planting to improve soil fertility.
In case of undernourished plant, add a balanced fertilizer when there are visible signs of nutrient deficiency, such as yellowing leaves or stunted growth. Follow the manufacturer's instructions for the recommended dosage and frequency of application.
Pruning Cleome luederitziana Schinz
Cleome luederitziana Schinz does not require frequent pruning. However, removing the spent flowers can encourage the plant to produce more blooming. Prune the flowers by cutting the stem below the flower head using a clean, sharp pair of pruning shears.
If the plant becomes too leggy, prune back the stems, leaving the main stem intact to promote new growth.
Propagation of Cleome luederitziana Schinz
Cleome luederitziana Schinz can be propagated through various methods:
Seed Propagation
Seeds of Cleome luederitziana Schinz can be directly sown in the garden bed in spring or fall. The ideal time to sow is in spring after the last frost or in fall before the first frost. Sow the seeds ¼ inch deep in well-drained soil. Keep the soil moist until the seeds germinate, which typically takes about 10-14 days. Once the seedlings are established, thin them to about 12 inches apart.
Cuttings Propagation
Cleome luederitziana Schinz can also be propagated through stem cuttings taken in spring or summer. Take 4-6 inches long cuttings from the tip of the stem of the parent plant. Remove the lower leaves from the cutting and dip the cut end in rooting hormone powder. Plant the cutting in a well-draining soil mix and keep it moist. Place the pot in a bright, warm location but away from direct sunlight. The cutting typically roots in four weeks. Once the cutting has successfully rooted, transplant it into a larger pot or garden bed.
Division Propagation
Cleome luederitziana Schinz can also be propagated through division. This method works best in early spring when the plant is starting to grow. Dig up the parent plant and separate it into clumps. Make sure each clump has several shoots with roots attached. Replant the clumps in a well-drained soil mix and water thoroughly. Keep the soil moist until the plant is established.
Disease Management
Cleome luederitziana Schinz is generally a disease-resistant plant. However, it is susceptible to some diseases that can affect its health and productivity. Here are some common diseases that can affect the plant and ways to manage them:
Anthracnose
This disease is caused by the fungus Colletotrichum gloeosporioides and can cause spotting and discoloration of the plant's leaves and stems. To manage anthracnose, it is important to promptly remove any infected plant materials and avoid overwatering the plant. Application of fungicides can also be helpful in controlling the disease.
Leaf spot
Leaf spot is caused by the fungus Cercospora and can leave circular or angular spots on the leaves of the plant. Removing and destroying infected plant materials, increasing air circulation, and improving sanitation practices can help manage the disease. Application of fungicides may also be necessary in severe cases.
Pest Management
Cleome luederitziana Schinz can attract various pests that can cause damage to the plant. Being able to identify these pests and knowing how to manage them can preserve the plant's health and productivity. Here are some common pests that can affect the plant and ways to manage them:
Aphids
Aphids are small, soft-bodied insects that can suck sap from the plant's leaves and stems, causing stunted growth. Pruning affected plant parts, using insecticidal soap, and introducing natural predators like ladybugs can help control aphid populations.
Spider mites
Spider mites are almost invisible to the naked eye and can spin webs on the plant's foliage. They can cause damage by piercing the leaves and feeding on the sap. Regularly hosing down the plant with water, keeping the plant well-watered, and introducing natural predators like predatory mites can help manage spider mites.
Whiteflies
Whiteflies are small, white flying insects that can damage the plant by sucking sap from its leaves. They can also transmit diseases. Plants can be sprayed with insecticidal soap or neem oil, and natural predators like parasitic wasps can be introduced to control whitefly populations.
