Cleomaceae

Description

Cleomaceae is a family of flowering plants that includes around 300 species, commonly known as spider flowers or rocktrumpets. The family is well-known for its ornamental plants, which are cultivated for their attractive flowers and foliage. Cleomaceae is native to tropical and subtropical regions of the Americas, Africa, and Asia. The flowers of Cleomaceae are usually hermaphrodite, meaning they have both male and female reproductive organs in the same flower.

Taxonomic Information

Appearance

Cleomaceae plants are known for their attractive foliage and showy flowers. The leaves of Cleomaceae are usually compound or palmately lobed, with three to five leaflets. The flowers are typically in shades of pink, purple, white, or yellow and have a distinctive spider-like appearance. The fruit is a capsule that splits open when ripe to release the seeds.

Care Guide

Proper care is essential to keep Cleomaceae plants healthy and thriving. Here are some tips:

• Water: Water the plants regularly, especially during hot and dry weather. Avoid overwatering, which can lead to root rot.
• Fertilization: Fertilize the plants with a balanced fertilizer once a month during the growing season.
• Soil: Plant Cleomaceae in well-draining soil that is rich in organic matter.
• Sunlight: Cleomaceae plants prefer full sun but can tolerate partial shade.
• Hardiness Zones: Cleomaceae plants can grow in USDA hardiness zones 4 to 10.

Common Pests & Diseases

Cleomaceae plants are generally hardy and resistant to pests and diseases. However, they may occasionally suffer from problems such as:

• Aphids: These small insects can suck the sap from the plant and cause stunted growth and yellowing leaves. Use insecticidal soap or neem oil to control aphids.
• Spider mites: These tiny pests can cause yellowing leaves and webbing on the plant. Use miticide to control spider mites.
• Root rot: Overwatering or poorly drained soil can cause root rot, which can be fatal to the plant. Ensure proper drainage and avoid overwatering.

Habitat

Cleomaceae is a diverse family of plants that can be found in a variety of habitats, including forests, savannas, and deserts. They are native to tropical and subtropical regions of the Americas, Africa, and Asia. Cleomaceae plants are also commonly cultivated as ornamental plants in gardens and landscapes around the world.

Questions and Answers

Q: Are Cleomaceae plants easy to grow?

A: Yes, Cleomaceae plants are generally easy to grow and care for, as long as they receive proper watering, fertilization, and sunlight.

Q: Can Cleomaceae plants tolerate cold temperatures?

A: Cleomaceae plants are generally hardy and can tolerate cold temperatures, but they may suffer damage if exposed to frost or freezing temperatures for extended periods.

Q: How often should I fertilize my Cleomaceae plants?

A: Fertilize your Cleomaceae plants once a month during the growing season with a balanced fertilizer.

Q: Can Cleomaceae plants be grown indoors?

A: Cleomaceae plants are best grown outdoors in full sun. They can be grown indoors in bright, sunny areas, but they may not flower as profusely as they would outdoors.

Related Plants

• Cleome hassleriana
• Cleome spinosa
• Cleome viscosa

References

• “Cleomaceae.” The Plant List. Accessed 22 August 2021. http://www.theplantlist.org/1.1/browse/A/Cleomaceae/.
• “Cleomaceae.” Missouri Botanical Garden. Accessed 22 August 2021. https://www.missouribotanicalgarden.org/PlantFinder/PlantFinderListResults.aspx?parentTaxonID=286786.
• “Cleomaceae.” Wikipedia. Accessed 22 August 2021. https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Cleomaceae.