Overview
Cleome schweinfurthii Gilg is a species of flowering plant that belongs to the Capparaceae family. It is commonly known as the spider flower or purple spider flower and is native to tropical African countries such as Sudan, Tanzania, and Uganda.
Appearance
The plant has a long stem that can grow up to 1.5 meters tall. The leaves are alternate, usually with three leaflets, and have a pungent odor. The inflorescence consists of a large cluster of pink to purple flowers that resemble a spider, hence the common name. The flowers have long stamens that protrude from the cluster and look like spider legs.
Uses
The plant is primarily used for its medicinal properties. The leaves, stems, and roots of Cleome schweinfurthii Gilg can be used to treat various ailments such as stomach pains, fever, and respiratory infections. The leaves can also be used to treat snake bites. In some areas, the plant is cultivated as an ornamental plant due to its beautiful flowers. The seeds of the plant are also used for oil extraction.
Additionally, the plant is used in African folk medicine to treat various ailments. The leaves, when boiled or crushed, can be used as a poultice to relieve pain and inflammation. The plant has also been used to treat malaria and other fevers.
Overall, Cleome schweinfurthii Gilg serves an important role in traditional medicine and provides a source of income for communities that harvest and sell the plant.
Light Requirements
Cleome schweinfurthii Gilg thrives in full sunlight but can also tolerate partial shade. In areas with hot summers, it is best to provide some shade during the hottest parts of the day to prevent the plant from wilting.
Temperature Requirements
This plant prefers warm to hot temperatures ranging from 65-85 degrees Fahrenheit. Temperatures that fall below 50 degrees Fahrenheit can cause the leaves to yellow and drop from the plant. Additionally, frost can kill the plant entirely.
Soil Requirements
Cleome schweinfurthii Gilg thrives in well-draining soil with a pH of 6.0-7.5. This plant can tolerate a range of soils, from clay to sandy, as long as it is well-draining. To improve the soil's drainage, add perlite, vermiculite, or sand. The soil should also be enriched with organic matter, such as compost or well-rotted manure, to provide the plant with nutrients.
Water Requirements
It is recommended to water Cleome schweinfurthii Gilg regularly, especially during the growing season, to keep the soil moist but not waterlogged. Overwatering can cause root rot, while underwatering can cause the plant to wilt and die.
Cultivation Methods for Cleome Schweinfurthii Gilg
Cleome Schweinfurthii Gilg, also known as the spider flower, is an annual plant that is easy to grow in most areas. It thrives in a wide range of soil conditions, from well-drained sandy soil to heavy clay. For best results, sow in well-draining soil that has been loosened and enriched with organic matter. Sowing can be done directly in the garden or in pots for transplanting.
Watering Needs for Cleome Schweinfurthii Gilg
Cleome Schweinfurthii Gilg prefers moist soil, but it can tolerate short periods of drought. It is best to water deeply once a week rather than shallowly every day. Be sure to avoid watering the foliage as this can lead to fungal diseases.
Fertilization for Cleome Schweinfurthii Gilg
This plant benefits from a balanced fertilizer application every four to six weeks during the growing season. Too much nitrogen will encourage foliage growth at the expense of flowers.
Pruning for Cleome Schweinfurthii Gilg
If you want to encourage bushier growth, pinch back the tips of the stems when the plant is about six inches tall. Remove spent flowers to encourage the plant to continue producing blooms. Once the plant has finished blooming, it can be cut back to the base to encourage a second flush of flowers.
Propagation of Cleome schweinfurthii Gilg
Cleome schweinfurthii Gilg, commonly known as African spider flower, is a popular ornamental plant because of its beautiful flowers and easy maintenance. Propagation of Cleome schweinfurthii Gilg can be done through various methods, including:
Seed Propagation
Propagation of Cleome schweinfurthii Gilg is most commonly done through seeds. The seeds can be collected from the ripe seed pods that appear after the flowers have bloomed. The seed pods can be allowed to dry on the plant before collection. The seeds are small and can be easily stored for future use.
To propagate Cleome schweinfurthii Gilg from seeds, the seeds should be started indoors in pots or flats about 6 weeks before the last frost. The soil should be well-draining and kept moist. The seeds will germinate within 7 to 14 days under proper conditions.
Cuttings Propagation
Propagation of Cleome schweinfurthii Gilg can also be done using cuttings. Cuttings can be taken from the plant's stem or branches. The best time to take cuttings is in the spring or early summer when the plant is actively growing.
The cuttings should be 4 to 6 inches long and should have a few leaves on them. The lower leaves should be removed, and the cut end should be dipped in rooting hormone. The cuttings should be planted in well-draining soil and kept moist until roots develop.
Dividing Root Clumps Propagation
Cleome schweinfurthii Gilg can also be propagated through dividing root clumps. This method is best done in the spring when the plant is actively growing.
To propagate using this method, carefully dig up the plant. Use a sharp knife or garden tool to divide the clumps into smaller sections. Replant the divided sections in well-draining soil and keep moist until established.
Propagation of Cleome schweinfurthii Gilg is relatively easy and can be done through multiple methods. With proper care and attention, the plant will grow healthy and strong, providing beautiful flowers year after year.
Disease Management
Cleome schweinfurthii Gilg is susceptible to various diseases which can be managed in the following ways:
- Fungal diseases: Diseases caused by fungi such as powdery mildew, leaf spot, and rust can be prevented by ensuring proper drainage, maintaining good air circulation, and avoiding wetting the leaves when watering the plant. Applying fungicides can also be effective in controlling fungal diseases.
- Bacterial diseases: Diseases caused by bacteria such as bacterial wilt and leaf spot can be managed by avoiding overwatering the plant and pruning infected leaves to prevent the spread of the disease. Avoiding watering the plant from above can also prevent the spread of the bacteria. Applying copper-based fungicides can also be effective.
- Viral diseases: Viral diseases such as mosaic virus can be managed by preventing the spread of the virus to healthy plants. This can be achieved by removing infected plants and avoiding contact with the infected plant when working with healthy plants.
Pest Management
Cleome schweinfurthii Gilg is also susceptible to various pests which can be managed in the following ways:
- Aphids: These pests can be managed by spraying the plant with a stream of water to dislodge them. Applying insecticidal soap or neem oil can also be effective in controlling aphids.
- Caterpillars: Caterpillars can be managed by handpicking them and dropping them in soapy water. Applying Bacillus thuringiensis (Bt) can also be effective in controlling caterpillars.
- Spider mites: Spider mites can be managed by spraying the plant with a stream of water to dislodge them. Applying insecticidal soap or neem oil can also be effective in controlling spider mites.
- Whiteflies: These pests can be managed by spraying the plant with a stream of water to dislodge them. Applying insecticidal soap or neem oil can also be effective in controlling whiteflies.
