Overview of Cleome scaposa DC.
Cleome scaposa DC. is a perennial plant that belongs to the family of Capparaceae, commonly known as the Rocky Mountain beeplant or stinking clover. It is native to western North America, including parts of Canada, the United States, and Mexico. The plant is often found growing in dry prairies and open areas, especially in rocky or sandy soil.
Appearance of Cleome scaposa DC.
The plant can grow up to 1 meter tall and has a bushy appearance, with several stems emerging from the base. The leaves are compound, with 5-7 leaflets, and are green or yellowish in color. The flowers are pink or lavender, clustered in terminal spikes, and have an unpleasant odor, which gives the plant its common name “stinking clover”. The fruit is a capsule containing round seeds.
Uses of Cleome scaposa DC.
Cleome scaposa DC. has several medicinal uses, including treating respiratory infections, coughs, and fever in Native American traditional medicine. The plant has also been used to treat rheumatism and skin diseases. The seeds have been used as a food source by indigenous peoples, who would grind them into flour or use them as a seasoning. Additionally, the plant is a favorite of bees and butterflies, making it an essential plant for pollinator gardens.
Light Requirements
Cleome scaposa DC. thrives in full sunlight to partial sunlight conditions. For optimal growth and flowering, it is recommended to provide the plant with at least six hours of direct sunlight each day. If grown indoors, it is important to place the plant near a window that receives bright, indirect sunlight.
Temperature Requirements
Cleome scaposa DC. is a warm-season plant that is well-suited to temperate and tropical climates. The ideal temperature range for this plant is between 60°F to 85°F (15°C to 29°C). If the temperature falls below 55°F (12°C), the plant may stop growing or even die. Therefore, it is crucial to protect the plant from frost and ensure that the temperature is consistently warm.
Soil Requirements
For best growth and development, Cleome scaposa DC. requires well-drained soil that is rich in organic matter. The pH level of the soil should be in the range of 6.0 to 7.0. Soil that is too acidic or alkaline can lead to nutrient deficiencies, stunted growth, and poor flower production. The plant can thrive in sandy, loamy or clay soil as long as it is well-drained. It is recommended to add compost or fertilizer to the soil before planting to give the plant the essential nutrients it needs to grow.
Cultivation Methods for Cleome scaposa DC.
Cleome scaposa DC., also known as Rocky Mountain Beeplant or stinking-clover, is a native plant to North America and grows well in gardens and containers.
The plant prefers full sunlight but can tolerate partial shade. It requires well-draining soil with a pH of 6.5 to 7.5. Planted indoors, it should be positioned in a location with indirect sunlight until it matures before transplanting it outside.
When sowing seeds outdoors, plant them in the spring after the last frost. Place the seeds in the soil at a depth of ¼ inch and water them generously. The seeds should germinate in 10 to 14 days.
Watering Needs for Cleome scaposa DC.
After planting the seeds, water them generously every once every three days for the first three weeks. Once the plant has established, watering can be reduced to once every week. Water the plant deeply, ensuring the soil is moist to a depth of 4 to 6 inches.
Cleome scaposa DC. is drought-tolerant, and overwatering can cause root rot. Reduce watering if there is rainfall.
Fertilization of Cleome scaposa DC.
Cleome scaposa DC. grows well in soil with low to average fertility. Over-fertilization can cause excessive foliage growth. Provide light fertilizer at the time of planting and again in mid-summer if necessary, using a balanced fertilizer. Follow the manufacturer's recommended dosage.
Pruning of Cleome scaposa DC.
To promote bushier growth, pinch the top of the plant when it reaches a height of 6 inches or prune the plant by one-third of its height after it blooms.
Deadheading of the plant can be done throughout the growing season to encourage prolonged blooming.
Cut the plant back to the ground in the fall after the first frost kills the stems. Alternatively, the plant can be left to self-seed if it is not wanted in the same location next year.
Propagation of Cleome scaposa DC.
Cleome scaposa DC., also known as Rocky Mountain Bee Plant, is typically grown from seeds. However, it can also be propagated through stem cuttings or division.
Propagation by Seeds
Propagation by seeds is the easiest and most common method for Cleome scaposa DC. Seeds can be sown directly into the ground in late spring, after the last frost. The ideal soil temperature for germination is between 60 and 70 degrees Fahrenheit. Seeds should be planted 1/4 inch deep and spaced 12 to 18 inches apart. The plant will begin to bloom in early summer and continue through the fall.
Propagation by Stem Cuttings
Cleome scaposa DC. can also be propagated by stem cuttings. Take cuttings in mid-summer when the plant is at its peak growth. Choose a healthy stem and cut a 4 to 6 inch piece from the tip. Remove the leaves from the lower half of the cutting. Dip the cut end in rooting hormone and plant the stem in a well-draining soil mix. The cutting should be kept moist and out of direct sunlight until it roots.
Propagation by Division
Cleome scaposa DC. can also be propagated through division. This should be done in the spring or fall. Dig up the plant and separate the root ball into smaller sections. Replant the smaller sections in well-draining soil mix and water thoroughly.
Disease and Pest Management for Cleome scaposa DC.
Cleome scaposa DC., commonly known as Rocky Mountain beeplant, is an annual herbaceous plant that belongs to the Cleomaceae family. The plant is native to North America and has white, pink, or lavender flowers that bloom from July to September. Although the plant is relatively pest and disease-resistant, it can still be affected by specific issues that can harm its growth and productivity.
Common Diseases
One of the most common diseases affecting Cleome scaposa DC. is powdery mildew. Powdery mildew is a fungal disease that appears as a white, powdery substance on leaves, stems, and flowers. It is a prevalent disease and can spread rapidly, especially in humid and warm weather conditions. To manage powdery mildew, it is essential to provide good air circulation around the plant and avoid overhead watering. Fungicides that contain sulfur or potassium bicarbonate can also be used to control the disease.
Another common disease is rust, which appears as red, orange, or yellow spots on leaves. Rust is also a fungal disease that is prevalent in warm, moist conditions. To manage rust, it is crucial to remove and dispose of any infected plant material and avoid overhead watering. Fungicides such as copper-based products can also be applied to control the disease.
Common Pests
The most common pests that can affect Cleome scaposa DC. are aphids and spider mites. Aphids are small, soft-bodied insects that feed on plant sap and can cause distortion and discoloration to leaves. To manage aphids, it is essential to remove any infected plant material and control ant populations, which can spread aphids. Natural predators such as ladybugs or lacewings can also be introduced to the plant to control aphids.
Spider mites, on the other hand, are tiny arachnids that feed on the undersides of leaves, causing yellowing and sometimes webbing. To manage spider mites, it is crucial to increase humidity around the plant and spray the leaves with water frequently. Insecticidal soap or neem oil can also be used to control spider mites.
In conclusion, knowing how to manage diseases and pests affecting Cleome scaposa DC. is crucial to ensure its growth and productivity. By following proper cultural practices and using appropriate control methods, gardeners can enjoy beautiful, healthy plants throughout the growing season.
