Description of Cleome Viscosa
Cleome viscosa, also known as Asian spiderflower, tickweed, and sticky cleome, belongs to the Capparaceae family. It is an annual herbaceous plant that can reach a height of up to 50 cm. The plant has a sticky, glandular surface that covers the entire plant, including the stem, leaves, and flowers.
The stems are erect, branching, and covered with long glandular hairs that make them sticky to the touch. The leaves are alternate, petiolate, divided into 3-5 leaflets, and covered with glandular hairs. The flowers are hermaphrodite and form in racemes at the end of the stem. Each raceme can hold up to 50 flowers that have four pink, white, or lavender petals, measuring between 5-7 mm wide. The fruit is a dehiscent capsule that holds multiple seeds.
Origin and Distribution
Cleome viscosa is native to tropical regions of Asia, including India, Pakistan, and Sri Lanka. It has been introduced and naturalized in many parts of the world, including Africa, Australia, Central and South America, and the Caribbean. In the United States, it can be found in Florida, Texas, California, and Hawaii.
Uses of Cleome Viscosa
Cleome viscosa has been used in traditional medicine to treat various illnesses, including fever, skin diseases, and stomach disorders. The plant contains various bioactive compounds, including alkaloids, flavonoids, and terpenoids, which give it therapeutic properties. It has also been used as an insecticide to control pests in agricultural crops.
The plant is a popular choice for ornamental purposes due to its unique appearance. Its sticky hairs make the plant unattractive to herbivores, limiting damage to the plant and increasing its ornamental value. It is commonly used as a bedding plant or in borders to add color and texture to a landscape.
Conclusion
Cleome viscosa is a unique plant with a distinct sticky appearance that serves both ornamental and medicinal purposes. Its widespread distribution and adaptability make it a popular choice in many parts of the world.
Light Requirements
Cleome viscosa is a sun-loving plant that needs full sun to grow well. This plant requires at least 6 hours of direct sunlight daily to thrive
Temperature Requirements
Cleome viscosa is a hardy plant species that can easily tolerate a wide range of temperature. However, it prefers warm weather conditions and grows well in temperatures ranging from 21°C to 25°C (70°F to 77°F).
Soil Requirements
Cleome viscosa thrives in nutrient-rich, well-draining soils. It can grow in a variety of soils, including sandy, loamy, and clayey soil types, but it prefers a slightly acidic to neutral soil pH of 6.0 to 7.5. Proper soil drainage is essential for this plant's growth, so it is best to avoid areas with poor drainage.
Water Requirements
While the plant can withstand drought and heat, regular watering is required to promote its growth. Water the plant thoroughly when the top inch of the soil feels dry to the touch. Avoid overwatering, which can lead to root rot or other fungal problems.
Fertilization Requirements
It is recommended to fertilize Cleome viscosa once every four weeks during the growing season with a balanced, all-purpose fertilizer. This will provide the necessary nutrients for the plant to grow healthy foliage and robust blooms. Avoid over-fertilizing the plant, as this can cause excessive growth, leading to weak stems and less robust blooms.
Cultivation Methods
Cleome viscosa is a hardy annual plant that grows best in full sunlight, making it ideal for cultivation in outdoor gardens. The plant prefers well-draining soil that is moderately fertile and slightly acidic. It is adaptable to different soil types, including sandy and loamy soils.
The seeds can be sown directly into the soil in early spring after all threats of frost have passed. The plant requires a spacing of about 12 to 18 inches apart and a depth of about 1/4 inch. It is essential to keep the soil consistently moist until the seeds germinate, which usually takes 7 to 14 days.
Watering Needs
Cleome viscosa requires moderate watering to thrive, especially during hot and dry weather conditions. The plant prefers moist but well-drained soil, and frequent watering can cause root rot. Generally, it is advisable to water the plant once or twice a week, depending on the weather and soil type.
Fertilization
To improve the growth and blooming of Cleome viscosa, it is essential to feed the plant with a balanced fertilizer, which is relatively high in phosphorus. Before planting, mix 2 to 4 inches of compost into the soil to provide enough nutrients for the plant. Furthermore, you can add a slow-release fertilizer to the soil after every six weeks to provide the plant with a continuous supply of nutrients.
Pruning
Pruning is not a must for Cleome viscosa, but it enhances the plant's appearance and encourages bushier growth. Deadheading spent flowers allows the plant to channel more energy towards producing new blooms instead of setting seeds. You can also selectively prune the plant to increase air circulation and prevent diseases. Use clean and sharp tools to avoid damaging the plant.
Propagation of Cleome Viscosa
The plant Cleome viscosa, commonly known as the Asian spider flower, produces yellow flowers and is native to the Indian subcontinent. This plant species responds well to propagation and can be easily propagated through its seeds, stem cuttings, or division.
Propagating Cleome Viscosa using Seeds
The seed propagation of Cleome viscosa is simple, and it can be done using the following steps:
- Collect the seeds from a healthy Cleome viscosa plant.
- Clean the seeds by removing any debris or dust.
- Sow the seeds on a well-draining soil surface, maintaining a spacing of 1-2 inches between the seeds.
- Water the seeds gently and place them in a bright, sunny location.
- Ensure the soil is moist and not waterlogged, and the seeds should germinate within 1-2 weeks.
Propagating Cleome Viscosa using Stem Cuttings
The stem cutting method of propagation for Cleome viscosa involves the following steps:
- Select a healthy Cleome viscosa plant and take a 6-8 inch cutting from the tip of a stem.
- Remove the leaves from the bottom, leaving a few leaves at the top.
- Dip the cut end in a rooting hormone, which helps with the propagation of the cutting.
- Place the cutting in a well-draining potting mix or soil and water it lightly.
- Keep the cutting moist and in indirect sunlight until roots develop, which can take around one month.
- Transplant the cutting to a larger pot once it's established.
Propagating Cleome Viscosa through Division
The method of propagation through division is used for mature Cleome viscosa plants. It involves the following steps:
- Dig up the mature plant and divide the root into smaller sections.
- Ensure there are several shoots in each section.
- Plant each section in well-draining soil or potting mix and water lightly.
- Keep the plants moist and in indirect sunlight until they establish, which can take around 2 to 4 weeks.
- Transplant the established plants as needed.
In summary, Cleome viscosa is a beautiful ornamental plant that is easy to propagate using seeds, stem cuttings, or division. Gardeners can choose any of these methods to propagate the plant and reap the benefits of its stunning yellow flowers.
Disease and Pest Management for Cleome Viscosa
Cleome viscosa, popularly known as tick weed or Asian spider flower, is a hardy plant that is relatively easy to care for. However, it is important to be aware of common diseases and pests that might affect the plant in order to manage them effectively. In this article, we will be discussing some of the common problems that impact Cleome viscosa and ways to control them.
Common diseases affecting Cleome viscosa
Cleome viscosa is susceptible to fungal infections and viruses, particularly in wet or humid conditions. Some of the most common diseases that affect the plant include:
- Powdery mildew: Powdery mildew is a fungal disease that causes a white, powdery coating to form on the leaves of the plant. It can be treated with fungicides or by improving air circulation around the plant.
- Leaf spot: Leaf spot is a fungal disease that causes spots to appear on the leaves of the plant. These spots can be circular or irregular in shape and may have a grayish-white center. Leaf spot can be prevented by avoiding overhead watering and promptly removing any infected leaves.
- Viral diseases: Cleome viscosa is susceptible to various viral diseases, including tomato spotted wilt virus and tobacco mosaic virus. There is no cure for viral infections, so prevention is key. Regularly clean your tools, avoid touching infected plants, and remove infected plants and debris from the area.
Common pests affecting Cleome viscosa
Cleome viscosa can also be affected by a range of insects and pests. Some of the most common pests that impact the plant include:
- Aphids: Aphids are small, soft-bodied insects that feed on the sap of plants. They can be found on the stems and undersides of leaves and can cause stunted growth and wilting. Aphids can be controlled by spraying the plant with insecticidal soap or a strong jet of water.
- Caterpillars: Caterpillars are the larvae of butterflies or moths and can cause significant damage to the foliage of the plant. They can be controlled by picking them off by hand or by using an insecticide labeled for caterpillar control.
- Thrips: Thrips are tiny insects that feed on the sap of plants. They can cause distorted growth and discoloration of the leaves. Thrips can be controlled by spraying the plant with insecticidal soap or neem oil.
Overall, the key to managing diseases and pests that affect Cleome viscosa is to be vigilant and take prompt action to prevent and control problems. With proper care and attention, your Cleome viscosa will thrive and provide you with beautiful blooms year after year.
