Overview:
Cleome spinosa auct. non Jacq. is a flowering plant that belongs to the family of Capparaceae. The plant is also known by its common names like Spider Flower, Rocky Mountain Bee Plant, and Spider Legs.
Origin:
The plant is native to South America and Central America. It can be found in Argentina, Bolivia, Chile, Paraguay, Peru, and Uruguay. Cleome spinosa auct. non Jacq. has been introduced to other parts of the world like North America, Europe, and Asia.
Uses:
Spider Flower or Cleome spinosa auct. non Jacq. is known for its medicinal properties. In traditional medicine, the plant is used to treat various ailments like rheumatism, fever, and toothaches. The leaves are also used to treat skin diseases like eczema and psoriasis.
Aside from its medicinal uses, Cleome spinosa auct. non Jacq. is also utilized as an ornamental plant. The plant's showy and vibrant flowers are attractive to hummingbirds and butterflies, making it a perfect addition to gardens and landscapes.
General Appearance:
Cleome spinosa auct. non Jacq. is an annual plant with a branching stem that can reach up to 2 meters in height. The leaves are green and palmate, and the flowers are borne in clusters at the end of the long stalks. The flowers have four pink or purple petals and a prominent boss of violet stamens.
The fruit of Cleome spinosa auct. non Jacq. splits open when it is ripe, and it has small seeds that are dispersed by the wind.
Light Requirements
The Cleome spinosa plant prefers full sun exposure, which means it requires at least 6 hours of direct sunlight a day. However, it can also thrive in areas with partial shade exposure, although it may result in slower growth. In indoor settings, it is best placed near a south-facing window to ensure adequate light exposure.
Temperature Requirements
The Cleome spinosa is a warm-season plant. It grows optimally in temperatures ranging from 70 to 85 degrees Fahrenheit during the day and above 55 degrees Fahrenheit at night. It requires temperatures of above 50 degrees Fahrenheit to germinate. Temperatures below the preferred range for a prolonged period can slow the plant's growth or even cause it to wilt.
Soil Requirements
The Cleome spinosa grows best in well-drained soil with a pH range of 6.0 to 7.5. It tolerates a wide range of soil textures such as sandy, loamy, or clayey soils. However, the soil must be fertile and amended with organic matter such as compost, manure, or leaf mold. Cleome spinosa is also moderately tolerant to drought but requires supplemental irrigation in dry periods for maximum growth and production. Additionally, it is recommended to mulch around the base of the plant to help retain moisture and regulate soil temperature.
Cultivation Methods for Cleome spinosa auct. non Jacq.
Cleome spinosa, commonly known as spiny spiderflower, spider plant, or devil's shoestrings, is an annual plant that is easy to grow in most conditions. Before planting, choose a sunny area and well-drained soil. The ideal temperature for germination is between 20-30°C. Plant seeds 1/4 inch deep and water lightly, making sure the soil stays moist, but not saturated, until germination occurs.
Thin seedlings when they are about 2 inches tall, leaving one plant every 10-12 inches. This allows enough room for the plant to grow and ensures good air circulation, which is essential for preventing fungal diseases. Keep the soil lightly moist during the growing season, and add mulch to retain moisture and keep the soil temperature more consistent.
Watering Needs of Cleome spinosa auct. non Jacq.
Cleome spinosa prefers moderately moist soil, but it can tolerate periods of drought. Water the plants thoroughly once a week, depending on the amount of rainfall received. Avoid overwatering, as this can lead to fungal diseases or root rot.
It is best to water this plant early in the day, so the leaves can dry before nightfall. Wet leaves overnight can lead to fungal infections and other problems. A soaker hose or drip irrigation system is an excellent way to water Cleome spinosa, as it ensures water gets to the roots without wetting the foliage.
Fertilization of Cleome spinosa auct. non Jacq.
Cleome spinosa is not a heavy feeder, but it benefits from regular fertilization throughout the growing season. A balanced fertilizer with equal amounts of nitrogen, phosphorus, and potassium will provide the necessary nutrients for the plant to thrive.
Be careful not to over-fertilize, as this can lead to excessive foliage growth at the expense of flowers and can also attract pests and diseases. Follow the instructions on the fertilizer label and apply it to the plants every four to six weeks, starting in early spring.
Pruning Cleome spinosa auct. non Jacq.
Although Cleome spinosa does not require pruning to remain healthy, it can benefit from deadheading spent flowers regularly. This practice encourages the plant to produce more blooms and can extend the flowering season.
Cut off the spent flower heads using sharp, clean pruning shears. Cut just below the base of the flower stem, making sure not to damage any new growth or buds. If the plant becomes leggy or overly bushy, remove a few of the older stems at the base to encourage more compact growth.
Propagation of Cleome spinosa auct. non Jacq.
Cleome spinosa auct. non Jacq. can be propagated by seeds or cuttings. The plant is an annual or short-lived perennial, therefore it is necessary to propagate it every year to ensure continuous growth.
Propagation by seeds
Propagation by seeds is the most common method for Cleome spinosa auct. non Jacq. Seeds can be collected from mature plants once they have dried out and turned brown. The best time to collect the seeds is in the fall. Once the seeds have been collected, they should be stored in a cool and dry place until the following spring.
In the spring, the seeds can be sown directly into the ground. The soil should be prepared by removing any weeds and adding organic matter. The seeds should be planted about 1/4 inch deep and spaced about 6 inches apart. Water the seeds regularly and keep the soil moist until germination occurs, which typically takes 7-14 days.
Propagation by cuttings
Propagation by cuttings is another method that can be used for Cleome spinosa auct. non Jacq. Cuttings can be taken from mature plants in the late summer or early fall. The cuttings should be about 4-6 inches in length and should be taken from the tips of the plant.
Remove the leaves from the bottom 2 inches of the stem and dip the cut end of the stem into rooting hormone. Plant the cutting into a pot with well-drained soil and keep it moist. Place the pot in a shaded area and protect it from direct sunlight until roots have formed, which typically takes 4-6 weeks.
Once the roots have formed, the plant can be transplanted into the ground. Plant the cutting in a prepared site with well-drained soil. Water the plant regularly and keep the soil moist until it becomes established.
Disease and Pest Management for Cleome spinosa
Cleome spinosa is a hardy annual plant that is generally disease and pest resistant. However, there are some common pests and diseases that can affect the plant, especially if it is grown in damp or humid conditions. Proper management of diseases and pests is crucial to maintain the health and appearance of the plant.
Common Pests
The most common pests that affect Cleome spinosa are aphids, whiteflies, and spider mites. These pests feed on the sap of the plant, leading to yellowing of leaves, stunted growth, and wilting of the plant. To manage these pests, it is important to regularly inspect the plant, especially the undersides of leaves, and use insecticidal sprays or soaps. Commonly used insecticides include neem oil and pyrethrin-based insecticides.
Common Diseases
Cleome spinosa is susceptible to fungal diseases such as powdery mildew and downy mildew. These diseases are characterized by the appearance of white or grayish powdery spots on leaves. Over time, the leaves may become distorted and die off. To manage these diseases, it is important to remove and destroy infected plant parts, improve air circulation by spacing plants properly, and avoid overhead watering which can cause moisture to accumulate on leaves. Fungicidal sprays like copper-based fungicides and sulfur-based fungicides can also be effective in managing these diseases.
Conclusion
With proper care and management, Cleome spinosa can thrive and produce beautiful blooms without being affected by diseases and pests. Regular inspection, proper spacing, and appropriate watering schedules can go a long way in preventing and managing pests and diseases that may affect this plant.
