Origin
Cleome oxyphylla Burch. var. oxyphylla is a native plant of South Africa.
Common Names
The common names for Cleome oxyphylla Burch. var. oxyphylla include pink cleome, spider flower, and rose queen.
Uses
Cleome oxyphylla Burch. var. oxyphylla is often grown as an ornamental plant in gardens because of its attractive pink flowers. The flowers are also used in floral arrangements. Additionally, the leaves and stems of the plant have medicinal uses in traditional African medicine for treating various ailments including stomach disorders and malaria.
General Appearance
Cleome oxyphylla Burch. var. oxyphylla is an annual plant that typically grows up to four feet tall. The plant has sparsely prickly branches with deeply lobed leaves that are typically green in color. The flowers of the plant are small, pink, and appear in clusters on long stalks. The flowers have long stamens and are surrounded by a distinctive spider-like calyx, which gives the plant its common name of spider flower. The plant blooms in late spring and throughout the summer months, and performs best in full sun with well-draining soil.
Light Requirements:
The Cleome oxyphylla Burch. var. oxyphylla plant prefers bright, direct sunlight. It grows best in areas where it can receive 6-8 hours of sunlight each day. If the plant does not receive adequate light, it may become leggy and struggle to produce flowers.
Temperature Requirements:
The Cleome oxyphylla Burch. var. oxyphylla plant is native to South Africa and thrives in warm temperatures. It can tolerate temperatures as low as 60 °F (15.6 °C) and as high as 90 °F (32.2 °C). However, temperatures below 50 °F (10 °C) can cause damage to the plant.
Soil Requirements:
The Cleome oxyphylla Burch. var. oxyphylla plant prefers well-draining, sandy soil. It can tolerate slightly acidic to alkaline soil conditions with a pH between 6.0 to 7.5. The plant requires consistent moisture but does not tolerate waterlogged soil. Adding organic matter such as compost or aged manure to the soil can improve its drainage and water-holding capacity.
Cultivation methods
Cleome oxyphylla Burch. var. oxyphylla thrives in a hot and dry climate. Therefore, it is best suited for cultivation in regions with a semi-arid climate. The plant grows well in well-drained soil that is slightly acidic. In areas with high humidity, it is best to grow this plant in a greenhouse. Additionally, it can be propagated through seed or cuttings.
Watering needs
Cleome oxyphylla Burch. var. oxyphylla is a drought-resistant plant. Therefore, it requires minimal watering. However, during the initial stages of growth, regular watering is necessary to help the plant establish itself. The best way to water this plant is through deep watering the soil instead of surface watering. This ensures that the plant's roots can access water from deep down the soil.
Fertilization
This plant requires minimal fertilization, with only a moderate rate of nitrogen-based fertilizers required to encourage healthy growth. It is necessary to avoid over-fertilization as it can lead to the plant's legginess and reduce blooming. Additionally, it is best to add organic manure, bone meal, or compost to the soil to enrich it.
Pruning
Pruning is not necessary for Cleome oxyphylla Burch. var. oxyphylla. However, deadheading can help in prolonging the blooming period. The plant can continue to bloom until early winter even with a little deadheading. The flowers can be cut and used in arrangements or left to dry naturally for future use.
Propagation of Cleome oxyphylla Burch. var. oxyphylla
Cleome oxyphylla Burch. var. oxyphylla is a flowering plant that belongs to the Cleomaceae family and is commonly known as spider flower or Tangle Pod. This plant is native to South America and is well-loved for its beautiful, showy flowers that bloom in shades of pink, purple, and white. Propagating Cleome oxyphylla is relatively easy, and the plant can be grown from both seeds and cuttings.
Propagation by Seeds
The most common method of propagation for Cleome oxyphylla is through seeds. The plant produces seed pods that will open up once they are mature, revealing small, round seeds that are black in color. Collect the seeds when the pods have dried up and turned brown, it is when they can be harvested.
Cleome oxyphylla seeds can be directly sown into the soil or can be started indoors for the first few weeks before transplanting it into the garden later. Sow the seeds ¼ inch deep in a light, well-draining potting mix. Water regularly to keep the soil moist but not waterlogged. The seeds will usually germinate within 10-14 days.
Propagation by Cuttings
Propagation by cuttings is also possible for Cleome oxyphylla. Take cuttings early in the morning when the plant tissues are turgid and hydrated. Cut a 4- to 6-inch long stem of softwood by using a sharp, sterile pair of scissors. Strip off all but the topmost pair of leaves.
Dip the cut end of the stem in rooting hormone powder and insert it into a potting mix made of perlite and peat moss or sand and soil blend. Water the mix and place the container in a shaded place. The cuttings will need to be kept warm and moist until roots start to grow in about four weeks, then it can be transplanted it to the garden.
Disease Management
Cleome oxyphylla Burch. var. oxyphylla is susceptible to various diseases, including powdery mildew, leaf spot, and stem rot. Here are some ways to manage these diseases:
- Powdery Mildew: This is a fungal disease that causes a white, powdery coating on the plant's leaves. To manage powdery mildew, you can spray a mixture of one teaspoon baking soda, one gallon of water, and a few drops of dish soap on the affected plants. You can also try pruning infected leaves and providing good air circulation.
- Leaf Spot: This is a fungal disease that causes brown or black spots on the plant's leaves. To manage leaf spot, you can prune infected leaves and avoid overhead watering. You can also apply a fungicide spray, following the instructions on the label.
- Stem Rot: This is a fungal disease that causes the plant's stems to turn brown and wilt. To manage stem rot, you can remove infected plants and avoid planting in waterlogged soil. You can also apply a fungicide spray, following the instructions on the label.
Pest Management
Cleome oxyphylla Burch. var. oxyphylla can attract various pests, including aphids, whiteflies, and spider mites. Here are some ways to manage these pests:
- Aphids: These are small, soft-bodied insects that cluster on the plant's new growth. To manage aphids, you can try spraying the plant down with a strong stream of water. You can also apply insecticidal soap or neem oil, following the instructions on the label.
- Whiteflies: These are small, white insects that fly around the plant. To manage whiteflies, you can try placing sticky traps around the plant. You can also apply insecticidal soap or neem oil, following the instructions on the label.
- Spider Mites: These are tiny pests that cause the plant's leaves to look speckled or bronzed. To manage spider mites, you can spray the plant down with a strong stream of water. You can also apply insecticidal soap or neem oil, following the instructions on the label.
