Cleidion

Description

Cleidion is a genus of flowering plants that belongs to the family Euphorbiaceae. It has around 80 species that are mostly found in tropical and subtropical regions of Asia, Africa, and the Pacific Islands. Cleidion plants can grow up to 10 meters tall and have a variety of uses, including medicinal, ornamental, and industrial.

Taxonomic Information

Appearance

Cleidion plants have simple, alternate leaves that are either entire or lobed. The flowers are small and greenish-yellow, and the fruits are capsules that contain seeds. The bark of some species has medicinal properties and is used in traditional medicine. The wood of Cleidion plants is also used for making furniture, while some species are grown as ornamental plants.

Care Guide

Cleidion plants require regular watering, especially during the growing season. They also need well-draining soil that is rich in organic matter. Fertilize the plants with a balanced fertilizer once a month during the growing season. Cleidion plants prefer bright, indirect sunlight, but they can tolerate some shade. They are hardy in USDA zones 10-12 and can be grown outdoors in tropical and subtropical regions.

Common Pests & Diseases

Cleidion plants are susceptible to mealybugs, scale insects, and spider mites. To prevent these pests, keep the plants clean, and remove any dead or damaged leaves. The plants can also be sprayed with neem oil, insecticidal soap or horticultural oil. Common diseases that affect Cleidion plants include leaf spot, root rot, and powdery mildew. To avoid these diseases, provide proper drainage, and avoid overwatering the plants.

Habitat

Cleidion plants are native to tropical and subtropical regions of Asia, Africa, and the Pacific Islands. They grow in a variety of habitats, including forests, savannas, and wetlands. Some species are also found in disturbed areas, such as roadsides and abandoned fields.

Question and Answer

Q: What are the medicinal properties of Cleidion bark?
A: Cleidion bark is used in traditional medicine to treat fever, diarrhea, and dysentery.Q: Can Cleidion plants be grown indoors?
A: Yes, Cleidion plants can be grown indoors as long as they receive bright, indirect sunlight.Q: How often should Cleidion plants be fertilized?
A: Cleidion plants should be fertilized once a month during the growing season.Q: What are the hardiness zones for Cleidion plants?
A: Cleidion plants are hardy in USDA zones 10-12.

Related Plants

• Macaranga
• Homalanthus
• Codiaeum
• Alchornea

References

• Flora of China. (n.d.). Cleidion. Flora of China. http://www.efloras.org/florataxon.aspx?flora_id=2&taxon_id=107242
• Prota4U. (n.d.). Cleidion. Prota4U. https://www.prota4u.org/database/protav8.asp?g=pe&p=Cleidion+cordifolium+(Lamk.)+Mull.Arg.
• World Checklist of Selected Plant Families. (n.d.). Cleidion. Kew Science. http://wcsp.science.kew.org/namedetail.do?name_id=38487