Origin
Cleome speciosissima Deppe ex Lindl. is commonly known as the pink spider flower, and it belongs to the genus Cleome in the family Cleomaceae. The plant is native to the Americas and is commonly found in Mexico, Guatemala, and Honduras.
Common Names
As mentioned, the plant is commonly known as the pink spider flower. It is also referred to as the rose spider flower and the Virgin's hair.
Uses
The pink spider flower is a popular ornamental plant due to its bright pink flowers and unique spider-like appearance. It is often planted in gardens and along borders to add color and interest. However, the plant's use is not limited to its ornamental value. It has been used in traditional medicine to treat various ailments and is known to possess antifungal and antibacterial properties. The seeds of the plant have also been used in cooking as a substitute for mustard seeds.
General Appearance
The pink spider flower is an erect, bushy annual plant that can grow up to 1.5 meters tall. It has long, thin stems with sparsely spaced leaves that are palmately lobed and toothed. The plant produces clusters of bright pink flowers with long, thin, protruding stamens, which give the flowers their unique spider-like appearance. The flowers bloom in summer and are followed by long, slender seed pods.
Light
Cleome speciosissima Deppe ex Lindl. requires full sun exposure to grow and thrive. It needs a minimum of six hours of bright sunlight each day to develop sturdy stems and leaves. If the plant does not receive enough light, it may become leggy and weak, impacting its flowers' growth and overall health.
Temperature
The plant requires warm temperatures to grow and develop correctly. It is native to tropical regions and can tolerate high temperatures. However, it cannot withstand frost or very cold temperatures. The ideal temperature range for Cleome speciosissima Deppe ex Lindl. growth is between 18°C and 25°C. If temperatures exceed 30°C, then the plant might require more watering to keep it hydrated.
Soil
Cleome speciosissima Deppe ex Lindl. grows well in rich, fertile, and well-draining soils. It requires the soil to be moist but not waterlogged. It prefers a pH range of 5.5 to 7.5, slightly acidic to neutral soil. Adding compost to the soil can help improve its moisture retention abilities and nutrient content.
Cultivation of Cleome Speciosissima Deppe ex Lindl.
Cleome speciosissima Deppe ex Lindl. is a flowering plant that grows well in most soils, including sandy and loamy soils. It prefers well-drained soil and full sun exposure for optimum growth and development. If planting from seeds, sow seeds directly into the soil in spring or summer when temperatures range between 65 to 75°F.
Seeds should be planted in rows, with a spacing of about 12 inches between plants, and germination typically occurs within a week or two. The plant can also be propagated through stem cuttings, although this method requires a sterile environment and rooting hormone powder.
Watering Needs
Cleome speciosissima Deppe ex Lindl. requires an adequate amount of water to thrive, especially during its growing period. Watering should be done deeply but infrequently, allowing the soil to dry out between watering to avoid waterlogging, which can cause root rot and damage the plant. Generally, watering twice a week is sufficient, although this may vary depending on the climate and the soil type.
Fertilization
The plant can benefit from fertilization during its growing period. Use a balanced fertilizer, such as 10-10-10, and apply it every six weeks. Be careful not to overfertilize as this can cause more harm than good to the plant. Follow the instructions on the package for the best results.
Pruning
Pruning is not necessary for Cleome speciosissima Deppe ex Lindl. However, it can help maintain the plant's shape and prevent legginess. Prune any dead or diseased branches, as well as any crossing branches that create congestion. Additionally, remove any spent flowers to encourage more blooms and prolong the flowering period.
Propagation Methods of Cleome speciosissima Deppe ex Lindl.
There are several ways to propagate Cleome speciosissima Deppe ex Lindl. Some of the common propagation methods are:
Seed Propagation
The most common method of propagating Cleome speciosissima Deppe ex Lindl. is through seeds. The seeds are small, black, and hard. They should be sown in warm soil, two to three weeks after the last frost. Sow the seeds 1/4 inch deep and keep the soil consistently moist until the seeds germinate, which should occur within 7 to 21 days. Thin the seedlings to about 12 inches apart, once they have grown to a few inches tall.
Cutting Propagation
Cleome speciosissima Deppe ex Lindl. can also be propagated through cuttings. This method is best done in the spring or early summer. Take cuttings from the plant's stems, ensuring that each cutting has at least two leaves. Remove all the lower leaves and place them in a container with a well-draining soil mix. Water thoroughly and keep in a shaded area until the roots have formed. This may take several weeks. Once roots are established, the plants can be transferred to individual pots.
Division Propagation
Another method of propagating Cleome speciosissima Deppe ex Lindl. is through division. This should be done in the spring when the plant is actively growing. Dig up the plant and gently separate the root ball into smaller sections, ensuring that each section has at least two stems. Replant the divided plants in individual pots or in their permanent locations, making sure to keep the soil consistently moist until they are established.
Disease and Pest Management for Cleome speciosissima Deppe ex Lindl.
Cleome speciosissima Deppe ex Lindl., also known as spider flower or Rocky Mountain bee plant, is a popular ornamental plant with purple, pink, or white flowers. However, like any other plant species, it is susceptible to several diseases and pests that can affect its growth and overall health. Here are some common problems associated with Cleome speciosissima and ways to manage them:
Diseases
Powdery mildew: Powdery mildew is a fungal disease that affects the leaves, stems, and flowers of Cleome speciosissima, causing a white or gray powdery coating to form on the plant's surface. To manage powdery mildew, remove the affected leaves and provide good air circulation around the plant. Try not to wet the foliage when watering, and apply a fungicide if necessary.
Septoria leaf spot: Septoria leaf spot is a fungal disease that causes brown or black spots on the leaves of Cleome speciosissima. The affected leaves eventually turn yellow and fall off. Remove the infected leaves and keep the soil around the plant clean and dry. Avoid overhead watering, and apply a fungicide if necessary.
Verticillium wilt: Verticillium wilt is a soil-borne fungal disease that affects the roots of Cleome speciosissima, causing the plant to wilt and die. There is no cure for Verticillium wilt, and infected plants should be removed and destroyed to prevent the spread of the disease. Avoid planting Cleome speciosissima in soil that has previously hosted infected plants.
Pests
Aphids: Aphids are small, soft-bodied insects that feed on the sap of Cleome speciosissima, causing stunted growth and distorted leaves. To manage aphids, spray the plant with a strong jet of water to dislodge them or use an insecticidal soap.
Spider mites: Spider mites are tiny pests that suck the sap from the leaves of Cleome speciosissima, causing yellowing and browning of the foliage as well as webbing on the undersides of the leaves. To manage spider mites, wash the plant with a strong jet of water or use an insecticidal soap. Increase the humidity around the plant to discourage spider mites from infesting it.
Whiteflies: Whiteflies are small, winged insects that feed on the sap of Cleome speciosissima, causing yellowing and curling of the leaves. To manage whiteflies, use yellow sticky traps to capture the adult flies or use an insecticidal soap.
By keeping an eye out for these diseases and pests and taking appropriate action as soon as you notice them, you can help ensure that your Cleome speciosissima plants stay healthy and beautiful.
