Polanisia

Description

Polanisia is a genus of flowering plants that belongs to the family Cleomaceae. It is commonly known as clammyweed, redwhisker clammyweed or hairy clammyweed. The genus includes annual and perennial herbs that are native to North and South America. These plants can reach up to 1 meter in height and have green leaves with small white or pink flowers that bloom in the summer and fall. Some species of Polanisia have edible leaves and seeds that are used in traditional medicine.

Taxonomic Information

Appearance

Polanisia plants have green leaves that are usually arranged alternately on the stem. The leaves can be smooth or hairy, and they may have lobes or notches on the edges. The flowers are small and white or pink, with four or five petals that are fused at the base. They are usually arranged in clusters at the ends of the stems. The fruit is a capsule that contains several seeds. Some species of Polanisia have a pleasant fragrance, while others have a pungent odor.

Care Guide

Polanisia plants are easy to care for and can thrive in a variety of conditions. They prefer well-drained soil that is rich in organic matter, and they need regular watering to keep the soil moist. Fertilize the plants with a balanced fertilizer every two to three weeks during the growing season. Polanisia plants prefer full sun, but they can tolerate partial shade. They grow best in hardiness zones 9-11.

Common Pests & Diseases

Polanisia plants are relatively resistant to pests and diseases. However, they may be susceptible to spider mites, aphids, and whiteflies. These pests can be controlled with insecticidal soap or neem oil. The plants may also develop fungal diseases such as powdery mildew or rust. These diseases can be prevented by watering the plants at the base and avoiding overhead watering.

Habitat

Polanisia plants are native to North and South America, and they are found in a variety of habitats, including prairies, fields, and disturbed areas. They can also grow in sandy soils, rocky areas, and near the coast. Some species of Polanisia are considered invasive in certain areas, such as Polanisia dodecandra in Australia.

Question and Answer

Q: Are Polanisia plants toxic?

A: No, Polanisia plants are not toxic to humans or pets.

Q: Can Polanisia plants be grown in containers?

A: Yes, Polanisia plants can be grown in containers as long as they are provided with adequate soil, water, and sunlight.

Q: What is the best time to plant Polanisia seeds?

A: The best time to plant Polanisia seeds is in the spring after the last frost.

Q: How often should I fertilize Polanisia plants?

A: Polanisia plants should be fertilized every two to three weeks during the growing season.

Related Plants

• Cleome
• Gynandropsis
• Peritoma
• Tarenaya

References

• The Plant List (2021). Polanisia. Retrieved from http://www.theplantlist.org/1.1/browse/A/Cleomaceae/Polanisia/
• USDA Natural Resources Conservation Service. (2021). Plants Profile for Polanisia. Retrieved from https://plants.usda.gov/core/profile?symbol=POLAN
• Wagner, W. L., Herbst, D. R., & Sohmer, S. H. (1999). Manual of the flowering plants of Hawai’i. University of Hawaii Press.