Overview
Cleome semitetranda Sond. is a flowering plant native to southern Africa. It is a member of the Capparaceae family and is also known by its common names, spider flower, pink queen and pink cleome.Description
Cleome semitetranda Sond. is an annual plant that can grow up to 3 feet tall. It has a slender and erect stem, with alternate palmate leaves that are divided into 3-5 leaflets. The foliage is dark green and each leaflet can grow up to 3-5cm long. One of the most striking features of Cleome semitetranda Sond. are its flowers, which bloom in the summer months. The flowers are pink in color and have four petals that are clustered together, giving it the appearance of a spider. The flowers attract butterflies and other pollinators.Uses
Cleome semitetranda Sond. has various uses in traditional medicine. Its leaves, roots, and seeds are used in the treatment of various diseases like fever, stomach troubles, and respiratory infections. The plant is also used to treat skin diseases and as an antidote for snake bites. It is also used for ornamental purposes in gardens and landscapes, adding unique and colorful features to the surroundings.Conclusion
Cleome semitetranda Sond. is a unique and beautiful plant that has been used for medicinal, ornamental, and cultural purposes in southern Africa. Its striking spider-like flowers and various traditional uses make it a valuable addition to any garden or landscape.Light Requirements
Cleome semitetranda Sond. prefers full sun to partial shade for optimal growth. It requires at least six hours of sunlight a day to thrive. If grown indoors, it should be placed in a sunny location or under artificial lighting for at least 12 to 14 hours.
Temperature Requirements
The ideal temperature range for the growth of Cleome semitetranda Sond. is between 20°C and 30°C. The plant can tolerate moderate heat and cold but cannot survive frost and freezing temperatures. Therefore, it is essential to protect it from frost if grown outdoors.
Soil Requirements
Cleome semitetranda Sond. grows best in well-draining, nutrient-rich soil with a pH range of 6.0 to 7.5. It prefers slightly sandy or loamy soil that is moist but not waterlogged. The addition of organic matter, such as compost or manure, can improve soil fertility. It is crucial to maintain soil moisture levels, especially during the dryer season, to avoid stress on the plant.
Cultivation methods
Cleome semitetranda Sond. is best grown in well-draining soil that is rich in organic matter. It requires full sun but can also tolerate partial shade. This plant can grow up to 1m (3ft) tall and 0.5m (1.5ft) wide, so ensure to give it enough space to grow freely.
Watering needs
Cleome semitetranda Sond. requires moderate watering during the growing season. Be cautious not to overwater as the plant is susceptible to root rot. Allow the topsoil to dry out between watering sessions before watering again. Ensure to irrigate thoroughly so that the roots receive enough water.
Fertilization
It is ideal to fertilize Cleome semitetranda Sond. during its growth period to promote healthier growth. Utilize a balanced fertilizer or one that is high in phosphorus and potassium components. Apply the manure in the soil around the base of the plant.Root and foliar fertilization are also practical options for fertilizing this plant. These procedures ensure uniform distribution while reducing the risk of nutrient leaching.
Pruning
Pruning Cleome semitetranda Sond. is essential to maintain its shape and reduce the risk of disease. The pruning can be carried out in early spring and autumn. Remove dead and diseased branches properly to protect the health of the plant. Pinching back young Cleome semitetranda Sond. plants helps improve their branching and promotes a bushier habit. Pinching is done by clipping off the top growth to encourage side growth.
Propagation of Cleome semitetranda Sond.
Cleome semitetranda Sond. can be propagated through both seed and vegetative methods.
Propagation through Seed
The easiest way to propagate Cleome semitetranda Sond. is through seed. The seeds should be harvested when the capsules turn brown and are beginning to split open. The seeds can then be dried in a cool, airy place and stored for sowing in the next growing season.
Sow the seeds in well-draining soil that has been enriched with compost. The seeds should be planted at a depth of 0.5 to 1 cm. Water the soil directly after sowing and maintain a moist soil until the seedlings emerge.
Thin out the seedlings when they have their second set of true leaves, leaving a space of 30 cm between plants. Once the Cleome semitetranda Sond. plants are established, they will self-seed, which can lead to a natural spread of the plant.
Propagation through Vegetative Methods
Propagation through vegetative methods is possible, but it is more challenging than propagation through seed. It involves taking stem cuttings and root cuttings.
Take stem cuttings from the Cleome semitetranda Sond. plant during the spring or early summer. Make the cuttings 10-12 cm long and remove the leaves from the lower half. Dip the cut end of the stem in rooting hormone and plant it in well-draining soil that has been thoroughly moistened. Cover the cutting with a plastic bag to retain humidity and place it in a shaded spot. Keep the soil moist for four to six weeks, and roots will form soon.
You can also propagate Cleome semitetranda Sond. from root cuttings in the spring. Take cuttings of 5-7 cm in length and plant them in a soil mix and water it well. Place the cuttings in a shaded spot and maintain the moisture in the soil until they root.
Once the propagated plants have well-established roots, transplant them to their final position in the garden or a plant pot.
Disease and Pest Management for Cleome semitetranda Sond.
Cleome semitetranda Sond. is a beautiful ornamental plant that is easy to grow. However, like any other plant, it can be affected by various diseases and pests. As a helpful assistant, I will provide detailed information about the control and prevention of the most common diseases and pests that affect Cleome semitetranda Sond.
Common Diseases
Fungal Diseases
The most common fungal diseases that affect Cleome semitetranda Sond. are powdery mildew, gray mold, and leaf spot. Powdery mildew appears as a white or gray powdery coating on the leaves, while gray mold causes the plant to wilt and can result in black spots on the leaves. Leaf spot causes circular brown spots to appear on the leaves. To manage these fungal diseases, it is essential to keep the plant's environment dry and avoid overwatering. You can also use fungicides to control the spread of the disease.
Virus Diseases
Cleome semitetranda Sond. is susceptible to various virus diseases, including cucumber mosaic virus and tomato spotted wilt virus. These viruses cause the leaves to curl and distort, and the plant may not flower. Unfortunately, there is no cure for viral diseases, so prevention is crucial. You can prevent viral diseases by keeping the garden areas free of weeds and controlling any insect pests that can transmit the virus.
Common Pests
Aphids
Aphids are common pests that affect Cleome semitetranda Sond. They suck the sap out of the leaves, causing them to curl and turn yellow. If left untreated, aphids can cause stunted growth and even death. To control aphids, spray the plant with a hose or treat with insecticidal soap or neem oil.
Caterpillars
Caterpillars can also affect Cleome semitetranda Sond. They eat the leaves, leaving large holes. To control caterpillars, remove them by hand or use Bacillus thuringiensis (Bt) insecticide.
Spider Mites
Spider mites are tiny pests that feed on the undersides of the leaves, causing them to turn yellow and eventually fall off. To control spider mites, spray the plant with water or insecticidal soap.
By following the above disease and pest management strategies, you can keep your Cleome semitetranda Sond. plant healthy and beautiful.
