Origin
Cleome pungens auct. non Willd. is endemic to the dry and rocky regions of the southwestern United States, particularly in Arizona, New Mexico, and Texas. It is a member of the Capparaceae family and is closely related to the more common Cleome serrulata, also known as Rocky Mountain beeplant.
Common Names
The common names for Cleome pungens auct. non Willd. include stinking flower, skunkweed, and Navajo spinach. The plant is known for its unpleasant and pungent odor, which is similar to that of a skunk. The Navajo people have traditionally used the plant as a food source and medicine.
Uses
Cleome pungens auct. non Willd. is a highly valued medicinal plant in traditional Navajo medicine. The plant is used to treat a variety of ailments, including headaches, infections, and gastrointestinal problems. The leaves of the plant are also used as a food source, either cooked or raw. The plant's seeds are edible and considered a delicacy by the Navajo people.
General Appearance
Cleome pungens auct. non Willd. is an annual herb that grows up to 3 feet tall. The plant has a characteristic unpleasant odor that repels insects and other animals. The leaves are ovate and pinnately compound, with 3-7 leaflets that are serrated at the margins. The flowers are small and pink to purple in color, and they bloom from late spring to early fall. The fruit is a long, narrow capsule that contains many small seeds.
Overall, Cleome pungens auct. non Willd. is a hardy and adaptable plant that thrives in dry and rocky environments. Its unique appearance and medicinal properties make it an important plant in Navajo culture and a valuable addition to any herbal medicine garden.
Light Requirements
Cleome pungens, commonly known as the prickly spiderflower, requires full sunlight to grow and thrive. The plant can tolerate partial shade but does best in direct sunlight. Without adequate sunlight, the plant will not produce flowers or will produce fewer flowers. Therefore, it is recommended to plant Cleome pungens in areas with unobstructed sunlight exposure.
Temperature Requirements
Cleome pungens is native to warm and humid climates, and therefore, is adapted to grow in tropical and subtropical regions. The plant thrives in temperatures ranging from 70 to 85°F (21 to 29°C). It can withstand temperature fluctuations but does not tolerate cold temperatures. In areas with colder climates, it is best to grow Cleome pungens as an annual plant during the summer months.
Soil Requirements
Cleome pungens can grow in a wide range of soil types, from sandy to loamy, but prefers well-draining soils that are rich in organic matter. The plant has low water tolerance and cannot grow in waterlogged soils. A pH range between 6.0 to 7.5 is ideal for optimal growth. It is essential to ensure that the soil is not too compacted, as it can inhibit root growth and nutrient uptake. Preparing the soil by adding compost or organic matter can improve soil fertility and drainage.
Cultivation methods for Cleome pungens auct. non Willd.
Cleome pungens auct. non Willd. is a warm-season annual plant that grows up to 3 feet tall. It is easy to grow and requires minimal care. Start by selecting a location with full sun and well-draining soil. Seeds can be directly sown in the garden after the last frost date or started indoors 4-6 weeks before the last frost date. Seeds should be sown at a depth of ¼ inch and spaced 12 inches apart. Seedlings should be thinned to one plant per square foot.
Watering needs for Cleome pungens auct. non Willd.
Cleome pungens auct. non Willd. requires regular watering to keep the soil consistently moist. Water deeply and infrequently to encourage deep root growth. Water the plants to a depth of at least 6 inches each time. Avoid overhead watering, which can lead to foliar diseases.
Fertilization for Cleome pungens auct. non Willd.
Cleome pungens auct. non Willd. benefits from regular fertilization with a balanced, water-soluble fertilizer. Fertilize every two weeks during the growing season, following the manufacturer's instructions for application rates. Alternatively, incorporate a slow-release fertilizer into the soil before planting.
Pruning for Cleome pungens auct. non Willd.
Cleome pungens auct. non Willd. requires minimal pruning. Deadhead spent flowers to encourage continued blooming. Pinch back the tips of young plants to encourage full and bushy growth. If the plants get too leggy, cut them back by one-third to promote new growth.
Propagation of Cleome Pungens
Cleome Pungens, also known as the prickly spiderflower, is propagated by seeds or stem cuttings. Below we provide more information on each propagation method:
Seed Propagation
The most common method of propagation for Cleome Pungens is through seeds. The seeds can be sown directly into the ground in the spring after the danger of frost has passed. Prior to planting, the seeds should also be soaked in water for 24 hours to encourage germination. Seeds should be planted in well-drained soil with a pH level of 6.0 to 7.5 and watered frequently until they germinate in one to two weeks.
Alternatively, seeds can be started indoors about 6-8 weeks before the last frost date. This allows for the development of a strong root system before they are transplanted outside. Seeds should be sown in a seed starting mix and kept moist but not waterlogged. The seedlings should be exposed to sunlight for about 16 hours a day and kept at temperatures of around 70-75°F.
Stem Cutting Propagation
Another propagation method for Cleome Pungens is through stem cuttings. This method is ideal for those who want an exact replica of a particular plant. Cuttings should be taken in early summer when the plant is actively growing. Cuttings should be about 4-6 inches long and should have leaves removed from the lower half of the cutting. The cuttings should be planted in a rooting hormone and then placed in well-draining soil. Cuttings should be kept moist and at temperatures of around 70-75°F until they develop roots in about four to six weeks.
Disease Management
One of the most common diseases that affect Cleome pungens is Powdery Mildew. This fungus appears as a white or gray powder on the leaves of the plant. To manage this condition, it is best to space the plants apart to promote air circulation as well as water the base of the plant instead of spraying it on top of the foliage. Another method is to use a fungicide approved for use on Cleome pungens.
Another disease that can harm Cleome pungens is Leaf Spot, which is caused by the fungus Cercospora. It appears as small brown or purple spots on the foliage. To manage this condition, remove leaves that show symptoms immediately, while avoiding a significant removal of the green portions of the plant. Fungicides can also be used to manage this disease.
Pest Management
Cleome pungens is prone to an attack by spider mites, which causes the leaves to have yellow spots. It is best to feed the plant regularly and spray it occasionally with insecticidal soap or neem oil. Also, it is best to keep the area around the plant clean of debris and avoid overcrowding the plants.
Caterpillars can also be a problem for Cleome pungens. They feed on the leaves, and in extreme cases can defoliate the plant completely. To manage this, remove the caterpillars manually with your hands or use biological controls such as Bacillus thuringiensis. Also, clean up any plant debris around the area to avoid harboring these pests.
