Overview of Cleome platycarpa Schinz
Cleome platycarpa Schinz is a plant species from the Capparaceae family that is native to Southern Africa. The plant is commonly known as “bushy spider flower,” “spider plant,” “spider flower,” and “bladderpod spider flower.”
General Appearance of Cleome platycarpa Schinz
The Cleome platycarpa Schinz plant is an annual or perennial herbaceous plant that can grow up to a height of 150 cm. It has a sprawling or erect habit, with a thickened taproot that can grow deep into the soil. The plant’s stems are branched, hairy, and sticky, with large, green leaves that are palmately lobed or compound.
The leaves of the Cleome platycarpa Schinz plant typically range from 2 to 14 cm long and 2 to 16 cm wide, with each leaf consisting of 3 to 9 leaflets. The plant’s flowers are produced in clusters on top of long stalks that grow from the leaf axils. The flowers are pinkish-purple or deep mauve in color, with four long stamens and a single pistil that extend beyond the petals.
Uses of Cleome platycarpa Schinz
The Cleome platycarpa Schinz plant has several uses. In traditional medicine, it is used to treat a variety of ailments such as abdominal pains, inflammation, and respiratory problems. The plant also has strong insecticidal and fungicidal properties, which have led to its inclusion in several insecticide and fungicide formulations.
Additionally, the Cleome platycarpa Schinz plant is an attractive ornamental plant that is popular in gardens. Its large, showy flowers and unique shape make it an eye-catching addition to any landscape. The plant also attracts bees, butterflies, and other beneficial insects, making it an important plant for pollinator conservation.
Light Requirements
The Cleome platycarpa Schinz, commonly known as the spider flower, prefers to grow in full sunlight or partial shade. The plant can tolerate direct sunlight, but it should be watered frequently in such conditions. The plant needs a minimum of six hours of sunlight daily to thrive and produce healthy growth.
Temperature Requirements
The spider flower is a hardy plant that can withstand a wide range of temperatures. However, it prefers temperatures ranging from 60 to 75 degrees Fahrenheit. The plant can survive in temperatures as low as 40 degrees Fahrenheit at night, but growth may be slow. The spider flower does not tolerate frost, and if exposed to it, the leaves may turn black and wilt.
Soil Requirements
The Cleome platycarpa Schinz plant thrives best in moist, well-draining soil that is rich in organic matter. The ideal pH level for the plant is between 6.5 and 7.5. Sandy loam soil provides the perfect growing medium for the spider flower, but it can grow well in a wide range of soil types. However, the soil must not remain soggy, as it could lead to root rot and hamper the plant's growth.
Cultivation Methods
Cleome platycarpa Schinz can be cultivated from seeds or cuttings. The best time to start growing cleome is in the spring after the last frost. The ideal temperature for seed germination is between 70-75°F. The seeds should be sown 1/8 inch deep in well-draining soil. It is important to keep the soil moist until the seedlings emerge, which usually takes 10-14 days.
Watering Needs
Cleome platycarpa Schinz requires regular watering to thrive. However, it is important not to overwater as this can lead to root rot. Water the plants deeply once a week during the growing season and reduce the frequency during the winter months when the plants are dormant.
Fertilization
Cleome platycarpa Schinz benefits from regular fertilization. Use a balanced fertilizer with equal parts nitrogen, phosphorus, and potassium. Apply the fertilizer once a month during the growing season. Avoid fertilizing during the winter months.
Pruning
Cleome platycarpa Schinz benefits from regular pruning to encourage bushy growth and increase flower production. Prune the plants back by one-third in the early spring before new growth emerges. Deadhead spent flowers throughout the growing season to encourage new blooms. At the end of the growing season, prune the plants back to ground level.
Propagation of Cleome platycarpa Schinz
Cleome platycarpa Schinz, commonly known as spider plant or spider flower, is a flowering plant native to Africa. It is a hardy, annual plant that can grow up to 60-90cm tall and is perfect for garden beds, containers, and borders. Propagation of Cleome platycarpa can be done by various methods, including seeds, cuttings, division, and layering.
Propagation by Seeds
Propagation by seeds is the most commonly used method for Cleome platycarpa Schinz. The seeds can be collected from the plant when the pods turn light brown. Sow the seeds in a well-draining soil mix, either indoors or directly in the garden after the last frost. Cover them lightly with soil and water gently. The seedlings will emerge in 7 to 14 days in a warm, sunny environment. Thin them out if the seedlings are too close together, maintaining a spacing of 15-45cm, depending on the size of the variety.
Propagation by Cuttings
Propagation by cuttings can be done in late spring or early summer when the plant is in its vegetative state. Take cuttings of 10-15cm length from healthy plants and remove the lower leaves, keeping only two to three leaves at the top. Dip the cut ends into a rooting hormone powder and plant the cuttings in a moist, well-draining potting mix. Keep the soil moist and provide indirect light and high humidity. The cuttings will root in 3-4 weeks.
Propagation by Division
Cleome platycarpa Schinz can be propagated by division in early spring, just before the new growth begins. Gently dig out the entire plant and divide it into several clumps, ensuring that each clump has a good quantity of roots and foliage. Plant each clump in a new pot or garden bed, keeping the soil moist and well-draining. The new plants will root and start growing in a few weeks.
Propagation by Layering
Propagation by layering is a slow but easy method to propagate Cleome platycarpa Schinz. In this method, select a low branch that can be partially buried. Remove the leaves from the bottom 10cm of the branch, and scrape the bark slightly. Apply a rooting hormone to the scraped area and cover it gently with soil. Keep the soil moist, and within a few months, roots will grow from the buried branch. Cut the rooted branch from the parent plant and transplant it into a pot or garden bed.
Disease and Pest Management for Cleome platycarpa Schinz
Cleome platycarpa Schinz, also known as the spider flower, is a beautiful and fragrant plant that is relatively easy to grow in gardens. However, it is still susceptible to various diseases and pest infestations that could cause damage or even death to the plant. Here are some common diseases and pests that may affect the plant and ways to manage them:
Common Diseases
1. Powdery Mildew - Powdery mildew is a fungal disease that appears as a white, powdery coating on the leaves and stems of the plant. This disease thrives in humid conditions and can spread quickly if left untreated. To manage powdery mildew, remove and dispose of infected plant parts and increase airflow to reduce humidity. Fungicides can also be used, but it is important to follow the instructions carefully.
2. Leaf Spot - Leaf spot is a fungal disease that causes small, dark spots on the leaves of the plant. These spots can gradually enlarge and merge, leading to defoliation and weakening of the plant. To manage leaf spot, remove and dispose of infected plant parts and avoid overhead watering. Fungicides may also help in severe cases.
Common Pests
1. Aphids - Aphids are small, soft-bodied insects that suck the sap from the leaves and stems of the plant. They can cause stunted growth, yellowing and curling of leaves, and the secretion of honeydew. To manage aphids, prune heavily infested plant parts and wash them off with a strong stream of water. Insecticidal soap or neem oil can also help in controlling aphids.
2. Spider Mites - Spider mites are tiny pests that feed on the undersides of leaves, causing yellowing and premature dropping of leaves. They thrive in hot and dry conditions and can spread quickly. To manage spider mites, increase humidity around the plant, prune heavily infested plant parts, and use insecticidal soap or neem oil.
Cleome platycarpa Schinz can be a stunning addition to any garden, but it is important to be vigilant in ensuring that it remains disease and pest-free to ensure its optimal health and beauty. By following the above management techniques, you can enjoy the beauty of this plant for years to come.
