Overview
Cleome suffruticosa Schinz is a flowering plant that belongs to the Cleomaceae family. It is a drought-resistant perennial herb that grows up to 1.5 meters tall. The plant is also known as the spiny spider-flower or the bushy spiderflower.
Origin
Cleome suffruticosa Schinz is native to southern Africa, specifically in the countries of Namibia and South Africa. It grows in rocky areas and dry riverbeds in arid climates.
Appearance
The spiny spider-flower has a bushy growth habit with woody stems that can become semi-woody near the base. The leaves are green with a palmate shape, usually divided into five or seven leaflets with serrated edges. The flowers have bright pink to purple petals that bloom in clusters from spring to summer.
One of the distinguishing features of this plant is its thorny spines that grow on the stems and at the base of the leaves, making it a difficult plant to handle. It is important to wear gloves when handling the spiny spider-flower to avoid injury.
Uses
Cleome suffruticosa Schinz has several medicinal uses. In traditional African medicine, the roots and leaves of the plant are used to treat a variety of ailments such as gastrointestinal disorders, respiratory problems, and infections. The plant also has antimicrobial properties and can be used topically to treat skin infections and wounds.
The spiny spider-flower is also used in landscaping and gardening for its showy flowers and ability to withstand drought conditions. It is often planted in borders, rock gardens, and as a backdrop for smaller plants.
In addition, the plant is a source of food for wildlife, particularly for birds that feed on the seeds and insects that visit the flowers for nectar.
Light Requirements
Cleome suffruticosa Schinz requires full sun exposure to grow to its full potential. It thrives in bright and direct sunlight, which ensures bushier growth, sturdy stems, and more significant blooming. Insufficient sunlight can lead to leggy stems and sparse flowering.
Temperature Requirements
Cleome suffruticosa Schinz is native to arid regions and can tolerate a wide range of temperatures. It can withstand extreme hot and dry conditions, and also withstand cold winters, albeit with some protective mulching. The plant does best in temperatures ranging from 60°F to 90°F (16°C to 32°C).
Soil Requirements
Cleome suffruticosa Schinz performs best in well-draining soil with a pH ranging from 6.0 to 7.8. The soil must be fertile and rich in organic matter, and the addition of compost, manure, or peat moss before planting can help to improve soil fertility. Avoid heavy, compacted soils, as these can cause root rot or stunted plant growth.
Cultivation
Cleome suffruticosa Schinz grows well in well-drained soils with good fertility and a slightly alkaline pH of around 7.5. The plant thrives in full sun to partial shade, making it suitable for gardens, landscapes, and containers. Ideally, plant the seedlings in early spring or late summer when the temperatures are mild and the soil is moist.
Watering Needs
The plant requires moderate watering, especially during dry spells. It's best to water the Cleome suffruticosa Schinz once a week, deep to the root zone. Avoid wetting the foliage, as it can lead to fungal diseases. During the winter, cut back on watering to prevent rotting of the roots and stems.
Fertilization
Regular application of fertilizers enhances the growth and overall health of Cleome suffruticosa Schinz. Use a balanced fertilizer every four to six weeks, starting from the planting period to the flowering stage. The fertilizer should contain equal amounts of nitrogen, phosphorous, and potassium. Reduced fertilization is advisable during the winter months.
Pruning
Pruning is essential in maintaining a healthy, attractive, and blooming Cleome suffruticosa Schinz plant. Trim the plant regularly by removing dead, damaged, or diseased parts. Additionally, cut back the stems annually to encourage a dense growth pattern. Deadheading spent blooms also promotes the production of more flowers.
Propagation of Cleome suffruticosa Schinz
Cleome suffruticosa Schinz, commonly known as spiny cleome, is a perennial plant that is native to South Africa. It is a woody shrub that can grow up to two meters in height. Propagation of this plant can be done via various methods such as seeds, cuttings, and division.
Propagation by Seeds
The most common method of propagating Cleome suffruticosa Schinz is through seeds. The seeds of this plant are easily obtained from the mature plant and can be sown directly into the soil. It is best to sow the seeds in early spring when the soil is warm and moist. The seeds take about two to three weeks to germinate.
Once the seedlings are about two to three inches tall, they can be transplanted to their final location. Transplant them carefully, as the young plants are delicate. The mature plant produces numerous seeds that can be harvested and used for future planting.
Propagation by Cuttings
Propagation of Cleome suffruticosa Schinz can also be done by taking cuttings of the mature plant. Take cuttings in early spring when the plant is actively growing. Cut a section of the stem about three to four inches long and remove all the leaves except for the top two or three leaves.
Dip the cuttings in rooting hormone and plant them in a pot filled with a well-draining soil mix. Water the soil thoroughly and place the pot in a location with bright but indirect sunlight. Keep the soil moist and the cuttings will root within a few weeks. Once the cuttings have rooted, they can be potted separately or transplanted to their final growing location.
Propagation by Division
Propagation of Cleome suffruticosa Schinz can also be done by dividing the mature plant. This method is best done in early spring before the plant has started actively growing. Dig up the plant carefully and separate the plant into two or three sections.
Each section should have enough roots and foliage to support growth. Place each section into a separate pot filled with a well-draining soil mix. Water the soil thoroughly and place the pots in a location with bright but indirect sunlight. Keep the soil moist and the plants will start growing within a few weeks.
Propagation of Cleome suffruticosa Schinz can be done through various methods such as seeds, cuttings, and division. Each method has its own set of advantages and disadvantages, and one should choose the method that best suits their needs. With proper care and attention, Cleome suffruticosa Schinz can easily be propagated and grown into a beautiful, mature plant.
Disease Management:
Cleome suffruticosa Schinz, commonly known as Spiny Spiderflower, is relatively resistant to most diseases. However, it is still vulnerable to certain fungal diseases such as rust and powdery mildew. These can infect the leaves and cause discoloration, deformity, and eventually leaf drop. The best way to manage these diseases is to remove and discard the infected leaves and improve air circulation around the plant. Pruning the plant to reduce overcrowding can also help prevent fungal diseases.
Pest Management:
The Spiny Spiderflower is susceptible to infestations by aphids, whiteflies, and spider mites. These pests feed on the plant sap, leaving behind yellow and distorted leaves, and can also transmit diseases. To keep these pests under control, regularly check the plant for signs of infestation, particularly on the undersides of leaves. Insecticidal soap or neem oil can be used to control these pests. Predatory insects such as ladybugs and lacewings can also be introduced to control aphids and whiteflies.
