Overview
Cleome rubelloides Kers. is a flowering plant species known for its colorful and intricate flowers that attract pollinators. It belongs to the family Cleomaceae and is native to South America. It is commonly called pink cleome, spider flower or pink queen.
Appearance
Pink cleome is an Herbaceous annual plant that grows to a height of about 3-4 feet tall and up to 2 feet wide. It is known for its stunning pink blooms that have long, thin, and spidery petals that give it the nickname "spider flower." Each flower head measures about 1-2 inches across and contains numerous individual pink flowers that form a delicate yet vibrant cluster atop an elongated stem. The plant's leaves are palmate with five leaflets and are arranged alternately on the stem.
Uses
Pink cleome is typically grown for ornamental purposes as it makes a beautiful addition to gardens, borders, and cutting beds. The plant readily attracts bees, butterflies, and hummingbirds with its showy flowers, making it a popular choice for pollinator-friendly gardens. It is easy to grow, low maintenance, and blooms from summer through fall. Some parts of the plant are also used for medicinal purposes in traditional remedies in some South American countries.
Cultivation
Pink cleome grows best in full sun or partial shade in well-drained soil with a pH of 6.0 to 7.5. The plant is heat and drought-tolerant and requires moderate watering. It can be propagated through seeds, which should be planted in spring after the last frost. Pink cleome self-seeds readily, and the seedlings can be easily replanted in the garden after they emerge.
Conclusion
Cleome rubelloides Kers. is a stunning and low-maintenance annual plant that is prized for its ornamental value and ability to attract pollinators. With its delightful pink blooms, spider-like petals, and easy growing nature, it makes a perfect addition to gardens, containers, and borders.
Light Requirements
Cleome rubelloides Kers grow best in full sun to light shade. They require a minimum of 6 hours of sunlight per day. If grown in too much shade, they may become leggy and weak.
Temperature Requirements
Cleome rubelloides Kers prefer warm temperatures. They can tolerate heat up to 90 degrees Fahrenheit but do not do well in cold temperatures. The minimum temperature for growth ranges from 50 to 60 degrees Fahrenheit. Frost will kill Cleome rubelloides Kers.
Soil Requirements
Cleome rubelloides Kers prefer sandy, well-draining soil. The ideal pH range for Cleome rubelloides Kers is between 6.0 and 7.5. They do not tolerate heavy clay soils or soils that retain water for long periods. They also require fertile soil with a good amount of organic matter for optimal growth.
Cultivation Methods
Cleome rubelloides Kers is a warm-season plant that grows well in tropical countries. It is easy to cultivate and grows best in well-draining fertile soil. Prepare the soil by adding organic matter, such as compost or well-rotted manure, at least four weeks before planting. Select a site that receives full sun and has good air circulation. Sow the seeds directly onto the soil surface, and do not cover them with soil. The ideal temperature for germination is between 21°C and 27°C.
Watering Needs
Cleome rubelloides Kers prefers consistently moist soil but is prone to root rot if overwatered. Water deeply once or twice a week, depending on the weather conditions. During the hot summer months, increase the frequency of watering to prevent the plant from drying out. Water the plant early in the day to allow time for the foliage to dry before nightfall.
Fertilization
Cleome rubelloides Kers benefits from regular fertilization to promote healthy growth and abundant flowering. Apply a balanced fertilizer, such as a 10-10-10 or 20-20-20, every four to six weeks during the growing season. Avoid applying excess nitrogen fertilizers, as they can cause the plant to produce more foliage than flowers.
Pruning
Cleome rubelloides Kers benefits from pruning to promote bushy growth and encourage more flowers. Pinch back the tips of the main stem and side branches when the plant reaches about 20-30cm tall. Pinch about one-third of the length of each stem. Repeat the process when new growth emerges. Deadhead the spent flowers to encourage the plant to produce more blooms. Removing the dead and dying flowers prevents the plant from diverting its energy to seed production.
Propagation of Cleome rubelloides Kers
Cleome rubelloides Kers is a beautiful annual plant that belongs to the Cleomaceae family. It is commonly known as Pink Cleome. The plant is native to North America and can reach up to 2-3 feet in height. Cleome rubelloides Kers produces pink flowers that bloom in the summer, making it a popular choice for gardeners and landscapers alike.
Propagation by Seed
The most common and efficient way to propagate Cleome rubelloides Kers is by seed. The seeds of this plant are easy to collect and germinate, making this a popular method for both commercial and hobby growers. The seeds can be harvested from the plant at the end of the growing season and stored in a cool, dry place until the next growing season.
To germinate the seeds, make sure to start them indoors 6-8 weeks before the last frost date in your region. The seeds should be planted in sterile seed-starting mix, ensuring that the soil remains moist until germination takes place. Once the seeds have germinated and the seedlings have developed their first true leaves, they can be transplanted into larger pots or directly into the garden bed.
Propagation by Cuttings
Cleome rubelloides Kers can also be propagated through stem cuttings. This method is useful when trying to propagate the plant quickly or when wanting to replicate a specific cultivar. The best time to take stem cuttings is in the spring or early summer when the plant is actively growing.
Using a sterilized knife, cut a 4-6 inch section of the stem from the main plant. Remove the lower leaves, leaving only a few at the top of the cutting. Dip the cut end into rooting hormone and then plant it into a pot filled with well-draining soil. Keep the soil moist and place the cutting in a warm, brightly lit location, away from direct sunlight.
The cutting should root in about 4-6 weeks, at which point it can be transplanted into a larger pot or directly into the garden bed.
Disease and Pest Management for Cleome Rubelloides Kers
Cleome rubelloides Kers, commonly known as pink cleome, is a hardy annual plant that is generally resistant to most diseases and pests. However, it is still essential to monitor the plant regularly for any potential issues to prevent them from spreading. Here are some of the common diseases and pests that might affect the plant and ways to manage them.
Diseases
Powdery Mildew: Powdery mildew is a fungal disease that appears as a white powdery substance on the leaves of the plant. It can hinder the plant's growth and prevent it from reaching its full potential. To manage this disease, you should remove any affected leaves, increase air circulation, and avoid overhead watering.
Gray Mold: Gray mold is a fungal disease that typically affects the plant's flowers. It appears as grayish-brown mold on the flowers, which can cause them to wilt and eventually die. To prevent the spread of this disease, you should avoid overhead watering, remove any affected flowers immediately, and increase air circulation around the plant.
Leaf Spot: Leaf spot is a fungal disease that generally appears as circular, brown spots on the plant's leaves. It can cause the leaves to turn yellow and eventually fall off. To manage this disease, you should remove any affected leaves, avoid overhead watering, and increase airflow around the plant.
Pests
Aphids: Aphids are tiny green or black insects that suck the sap from the plant's leaves and stems. They can cause the leaves to yellow and eventually fall off. To manage an aphid infestation, you can spray the plant with soapy water, prune off heavily infested areas, and encourage the presence of ladybugs which are natural predators of aphids.
Spider Mites: Spider mites are tiny arachnids that can create a fine web on the plant. They suck the sap from the leaves, causing them to turn yellow and eventually fall off. To manage an infestation, you can use a strong spray of water to knock them off the leaves, spray the plant with neem oil, and ensure the area around the plant is clean and free of debris.
Caterpillars: Caterpillars are the larvae of moths or butterflies that can eat the leaves and flowers of the plant. To manage a caterpillar infestation, you can pick off the caterpillars manually, spray the plant with an insecticidal soap, and encourage the presence of birds which are natural predators of caterpillars.
By monitoring your Cleome rubelloides Kers regularly and taking necessary measures to prevent any disease or pest infestations, you can ensure that your plant remains healthy and thrives. Remember, prevention is always better than cure.
