Cleome rutidosperma DC.: A Unique and Versatile Plant
Cleome rutidosperma DC. is a flowering, herbaceous plant that belongs to the Cleomaceae family. Commonly known as Rocky Mountain Beeplant, Stinking Clover, or Yellow Beeplant, this perennial plant is native to the Great Plains and Rocky Mountains of North America.
General Appearance
Cleome rutidosperma DC. can grow up to 2-5 feet tall and 1-3 feet wide. The plant's leaves are arranged alternately, have petioles, and are pinnately compound with 3-7 leaflets. The flowers are small and yellow with long stamens, and they grow in dense clusters at the tips of the stems. The fruit is a capsule that splits open to release many small seeds.
Uses
Throughout history, Cleome rutidosperma DC. has been used for various purposes by several Native American tribes. The plant was often used for medicinal purposes, such as treating respiratory ailments, fever, and rheumatism. The leaves and flowers were also used to make a yellow dye for textiles.
Today, the plant is used in pollinator gardens as it attracts bees, butterflies, and other pollinators. The seeds are also edible and have a nutty flavor. Additionally, the plant's leaves and flowers have a strong scent, which can repel pests such as aphids and whiteflies in the garden.
In conclusion, Cleome rutidosperma DC. is a unique and versatile plant that offers numerous benefits. Its hardiness, attractive appearance, and medicinal and culinary uses make it an excellent addition to any garden or natural space.
Light Conditions
The plant Cleome rutidosperma DC. requires full sun to grow properly. This plant cannot tolerate shade well and hence, it should be planted in areas that receive at least six hours of direct sunlight every day. In areas with extremely hot temperatures, it is better to provide some shade during the hottest part of the day to avoid the leaves getting burnt.
Temperature Requirements
The plant Cleome rutidosperma DC. is a warm-season plant that requires warm temperatures to grow and thrive. Therefore, the plant grows best in temperatures ranging from 68 - 86 degrees Fahrenheit (20 - 30 degrees Celsius). Lower temperatures than this can result in stunted growth, reduced flowering, and even death of the plant. It is important to note that the plant is intolerant to frost and cannot survive in frost-prone areas.
Soil Requirements
Cleome rutidosperma DC. grows well in well-draining soils that are rich in organic matter. The plant prefers soils that are slightly acidic, with pH values ranging from 5.5 to 7.5. It is important to note that heavy clay soils tend to retain moisture for longer periods, which can lead to root rot. Hence, it is important to ensure that the soil is well-draining to avoid waterlogging. The plant can tolerate drought but thrives best when watered regularly.
Cultivation of Cleome rutidosperma DC.
When cultivating Cleome rutidosperma DC., it is important to ensure that the plant is located in well-draining and fertile soil. The plant prefers full to partial sunlight and can grow in a range of soil types, including loam, sand, and clay. Planting should be done in the spring, with seeds planted around ΒΌ inch deep, spaced around 12 inches apart. The plant should be watered well after planting and regularly during its growth period.
Watering Needs of Cleome rutidosperma DC.
Watering needs for this plant vary depending on the soil and climate conditions. It is important to ensure that the soil remains moist, but not waterlogged, during the growth period. During hot and dry weather, the plant may require more frequent watering. However, it is important not to overwater as this can lead to root rot and other issues.
Fertilization of Cleome rutidosperma DC.
This plant benefits from regular fertilization during its growth period. A balanced fertilizer, such as 10-10-10 or 8-8-8 should be applied every four to six weeks. Alternatively, organic fertilizers, such as compost or manure, can be used to improve soil quality and promote plant growth.
Pruning of Cleome rutidosperma DC.
Pruning of the plant is not necessary, but can help to promote bushier growth and encourage additional flowering. If pruning is desired, it should be done in the early spring, before new growth emerges. Deadheading of spent flowers throughout the growth period can also help to encourage additional blooms.
Propagation of Cleome rutidosperma DC.
Cleome rutidosperma DC., commonly known as Rocky Mountain beeplant or stinking-clover, is an annual plant that belongs to the Cleomaceae family. Propagation is the process of producing new plants from seeds or vegetative parts of the parent plant. Here are the propagation methods for Cleome rutidosperma DC.
Propagation through Seeds
The most common and easiest method of propagation for Cleome rutidosperma DC. is from seeds. Seeds are produced in abundance, making them readily available for propagation. They are small, black, and covered with a hard seed coat. The plant can reseed itself, and it is also possible to collect mature seeds from the dried seed pods in late summer or early fall.
To propagate Cleome rutidosperma DC. from seeds, start by scarifying the hard seed coat using sandpaper or a file to help water absorption. Soak the seeds in warm water overnight to loosen the seed coat before planting. Sow the seeds in a tray or directly into the ground in early spring after the danger of frost has passed. Maintain a distance of 30-60 cm between plants to provide enough space for growth.
Propagation through Cuttings
Propagation through cuttings is possible but less common, as Cleome rutidosperma DC. does not produce many lateral shoots. However, this method can be used to produce clones of the parent plant. Take stem cuttings from a healthy plant during the growing season, making sure to select a stem with no flowers. Remove the lower leaves, and dip the cut end in rooting hormone. Insert the cutting in a well-draining potting mix, and place it in a warm and humid location. Keep the soil evenly moist until the cutting has rooted.
In conclusion, Cleome rutidosperma DC. can be propagated by seeds and cuttings. Seeding is the most common and successful method for propagating this plant. By following the proper procedures for propagation, gardeners can propagate this plant and enjoy its vibrant summer blooms.
Disease and Pest Management for Cleome rutidosperma DC. Plant
Cleome rutidosperma DC. plants are susceptible to a wide range of diseases and pests that can harm the plant. Therefore, proper disease and pest management practices are necessary to maintain healthy plants in gardens, landscapes, or fields. Here we discuss some of the most common diseases and pests that might affect Cleome rutidosperma DC. plants and suggest ways to manage them effectively.
Common Diseases
Powdery Mildew: Powdery mildew is a fungal disease that appears as a white powdery substance on the leaves and stems of the plant. It can reduce the plant's growth, yield, and overall health. To manage powdery mildew, maintain proper spacing between the plants to promote air circulation. Avoid overhead watering and remove any infected leaves or stems immediately. Fungicidal sprays or natural remedies, such as neem oil, can be effective in managing the disease.
Leaf Spots: Leaf spots are another fungal disease that affects Cleome rutidosperma DC. plants. It appears as brown or black spots on the leaves, which may coalesce, leading to leaf drop. To manage leaf spots, avoid overhead watering, improve soil drainage, and remove any infected leaves or stems immediately. Fungicidal sprays can be used to manage the disease.
Rust: Rust is a disease caused by a fungal pathogen that appears as yellow to orange powdery spots on leaves and stems. To manage rust, remove any infected plant parts immediately, avoid overhead watering, and improve air circulation. Fungicidal sprays can also be used to manage the disease.
Common Pests
Aphids: Aphids are small, soft-bodied insects that suck sap from the plant, causing the leaves to curl, distort, and turn yellow. To manage aphids, use insecticidal soap, neem oil, or a strong spray of water to dislodge them from the plant.
Caterpillars: Caterpillars are the larval stage of moths and butterflies, which can cause significant damage to the plant by feeding on the leaves and flowers. To manage caterpillars, use Bacillus thuringiensis (Bt) or other insecticides that target caterpillars.
Spider Mites: Spider mites are tiny pests that suck sap from the plant, causing yellowing or bronzing of the leaves. To manage spider mites, use insecticidal soap, neem oil, or a strong spray of water to dislodge them from the plant. Avoid using broad-spectrum insecticides that may harm beneficial insects.
Proper disease and pest management practices, such as regular inspection, crop rotation, and maintaining healthy soil, can help minimize the incidence and severity of diseases and pests in Cleome rutidosperma DC. plants.
