Origin and Common Names
Cleome oxyphylla Burch. var. robusta Kers is a species of tall flowering plant that belongs to the Capparaceae family. Originating from South Africa, this plant is commonly known as the giant spider flower or large-leaved cleome.
General Appearance
The giant spider flower is a tall and upright annual plant that can grow up to three feet in height. The plant is characterized by its green and fleshy stems, which are covered with spikes. The leaves are large, lobed, and serrated, and can reach up to a foot in length. The flowers are produced on long stems, and can be pink, white, or purple. They have long and slender petals, giving them a spider-like appearance.
Uses
Giant spider flower has many uses. In traditional medicine, the leaves and roots are used to treat skin infections, ulcers, and wounds. The seeds of the plant are used to make oil, which is used in cooking and also as a moisturizer for the skin. The plant is also often used as an ornamental plant in gardens and landscaping.
Aside from its practical uses, giant spider flower is also a popular choice for attracting pollinators such as bees and butterflies to gardens. The showy flowers are great for adding color and texture to any landscape, and the plant is easy to grow and care for.
Light Requirements
Cleome oxyphylla Burch. var. robusta Kers requires full or partial sunlight exposure of at least 6 to 8 hours per day. It thrives in bright light and can tolerate partial shade, especially in hot summer months.
Temperature Requirements
This plant prefers warm temperatures between 60°F to 80°F (15.5°C to 26.5°C). It cannot tolerate frost, and thus, it is recommended to grow it during the summer months in regions with colder climates. The ideal temperature range for this plant is between 70°F and 75°F (21°C and 24°C).
Soil Requirements
Cleome oxyphylla Burch. var. robusta Kers is adaptable to different soil types but prefers well-draining soil with a pH range of 6.5 to 7.5. It grows well in soils enriched with organic matter and requires moderate moisture levels. Overwatering or poorly drained soil can lead to root rot, which can be fatal to the plant.
Cultivation of Cleome oxyphylla Burch. var. robusta Kers
Cleome oxyphylla Burch. var. robusta Kers is a plant that thrives in warm temperatures. This plant is native to the African continent and is commonly found in warm, arid climates. The ideal soil for cultivation should have good drainage as this plant does not tolerate water-logged soils. Preferred soil pH for cultivating this plant ranges between slightly acidic and slightly alkaline.
Sow Cleome oxyphylla Burch. var. robusta Kers seeds in late spring or early summer after the last frost. The seeds should be planted approximately 1/8 inch deep in the soil. Keep the soil moist until the seeds germinate which usually takes around 2-3 weeks.
Watering needs of Cleome oxyphylla Burch. var. robusta Kers
Cleome oxyphylla Burch. var. robusta Kers is not tolerant of drought and requires regular watering. Adequate watering ensures that the plant remains moist, but not waterlogged, and that its roots are well established. Watering should be done in the morning or during the night to avoid evaporation. Overwatering can lead to root rot and should be avoided. Plants should be watered 1-2 times a week, depending on the environmental conditions.
Fertilization of Cleome oxyphylla Burch. var. robusta Kers
Cleome oxyphylla Burch. var. robusta Kers requires regular fertilization with a balanced fertilizer. Fertilizer should be applied after the plant has started growing and should be done when the soil is moist to avoid burning the roots, making sure to avoid contact with the plant's foliage or flowers. Nitrogen-rich fertilizers are suitable for the early stages of growth. However, a balanced fertilizer such as a 10-10-10 or 20-20-20 mix should be used during the plant's growth period.
Pruning of Cleome oxyphylla Burch. var. robusta Kers
Pruning is essential to keep Cleome oxyphylla Burch. var. robusta Kers at its best. The plants benefit from regular deadheading to encourage the growth of new blooms and maintaining the plant's shape. Deadheading involves removing the spent blooms and seed pods using pruning shears. To prevent the spread of diseases, sterilize the pruning shears before and after use by wiping the blades with rubbing alcohol or a cleaning agent containing alcohol.
Propagation of Cleome oxyphylla Burch. var. robusta Kers
Cleome oxyphylla Burch. var. robusta Kers, commonly known as the African spider flower, can be propagated using different methods. The seeds and stem cuttings can be used to propagate the plant.
Seed propagation
The African spider flower produces long, slender seed pods that contain numerous seeds. To propagate the plant using seeds, collect the seed pods when they turn brown and brittle. Once the pods are dry, crack them open to obtain the seeds. Plant the seeds in seedbeds or containers filled with a well-draining potting mix. Cover the seeds with a thin layer of soil and water them adequately. Place the seedbeds or containers in a warm and adequately lit area, and keep the soil moist until the seeds germinate, which usually takes 10-21 days. The seedlings can be transplanted or thinned out once they are strong enough.
Stem cutting propagation
Stem cuttings are another effective way of propagating the African spider flower. Cut a healthy stem from the parent plant, making sure it has several leaves and is at least four inches long. Remove the lower leaves, leaving only the topmost leaves, and insert the cutting into a well-draining potting mix. Water the cutting and cover it with a clear plastic bag or a cloche to maintain adequate moisture levels. Rooting usually takes 2-4 weeks, after which the cutting can be transplanted into individual pots or the garden.
Disease and Pest Management for Cleome Oxyphylla Burch. var. Robusta Kers
Cleome Oxyphylla Burch. var. Robusta Kers, commonly known as the spider flower, is generally a resilient plant that is not prone to serious disease or pest infestations. However, it is not immune to potential threats. Proper management is essential to ensure the health and longevity of the spider flower.
Common Diseases
The spider flower can fall victim to several diseases, including powdery mildew, downy mildew, and leaf spots. Powdery mildew is a fungal disease that affects the leaves and stems of the plant. It typically presents as a white powdery residue. Downy mildew is another fungal disease that causes yellow or brown patches to form on the leaves. Leaf spots are yet another fungal disease that results in brown or black spots on the leaves.
To manage these diseases, remove and discard the affected plant parts. Proper watering techniques and adequate sunlight can prevent powdery mildew and downy mildew. In case of severe infection, application of fungicides, such as copper-based fungicides or neem oil, can be an effective option.
Common Pests
The spider flower is also susceptible to pests such as aphids, spider mites, and whiteflies. Aphids and spider mites feed on the plant's sap and can cause stunted growth, yellowing leaves, and curling of the leaves. Whiteflies are often found underneath the leaves and can transmit viruses to the plant.
To manage these pests, one can use insecticidal soap or neem oil. Insecticidal soap works by suffocating the pests while neem oil disrupts their growth and development. Regularly washing the leaves and maintaining a hygienic environment can also prevent pest infestations.
It is important to note that overuse of pesticides or fungicides can have adverse effects on the environment and harm beneficial insects such as bees. Therefore, use them only as a last resort and follow the instructions carefully.
