Contents
Description
Cleome is a flowering plant that belongs to the family Cleomaceae. It is native to South America but is now widely cultivated in different parts of the world. Cleome is also known by other common names, such as spider flower, spider plant, and grandfather’s whiskers. It is a unique plant that can grow up to 5 feet tall and has elongated seed pods that resemble spider legs.
Taxonomic Information
| Domain| Eukaryota ||————-|———–|| Kingdom| Plantae|| Phylum| Angiosperms || Class| Eudicots || Order| Brassicales || Family| Cleomaceae || Genus| Cleome|
Appearance
Cleome has green, serrated leaves that grow alternately on the stem. Its flowers have four petals that are arranged in a unique way, resembling a spider’s legs. The flowers can be pink, white, purple, or lavender and bloom from spring to fall. Cleome can grow up to 5 feet tall and 2 feet wide, making it an impressive addition to any garden.
Care Guide
Cleome is a low-maintenance plant that is easy to care for. It prefers well-draining soil and needs to be watered regularly, especially during hot and dry weather. Fertilization is recommended every two weeks during the growing season. Cleome requires full sunlight and can tolerate partial shade. It is hardy in USDA zones 2-10.
Common Pests & Diseases
Cleome is not prone to many pests and diseases. However, it can be attacked by aphids, spider mites, and whiteflies. To prevent these pests, it is important to keep the plant healthy and well-watered. Diseases that can affect Cleome include powdery mildew and rust. These can be prevented by providing good air circulation around the plant and avoiding overhead watering.
Habitat
Cleome is native to South America, specifically Argentina and Uruguay. It grows in dry and rocky habitats and can tolerate drought conditions. Cleome is now cultivated in different parts of the world, such as North America, Europe, and Asia.
Question and Answer
Q: How often should I water my Cleome plant?
A: Cleome needs to be watered regularly, especially during hot and dry weather. Water the plant deeply once a week or more often if the soil is dry to the touch.
Q: Can Cleome tolerate shade?
A: Cleome prefers full sunlight but can tolerate partial shade. However, it may not bloom as profusely in shady areas.
Q: What is the best time to fertilize Cleome?
A: Fertilization is recommended every two weeks during the growing season, from spring to fall.
Q: Is Cleome an annual or perennial plant?
A: Cleome is an annual plant, meaning it completes its life cycle in one growing season.
Related Plants
Here are some related plants to Cleome:
- Brachycome
- Callistephus
- Centaurea
- Coreopsis
References
- “Cleome.” Missouri Botanical Garden. Accessed June 28, 2021. https://www.missouribotanicalgarden.org/PlantFinder/PlantFinderDetails.aspx?kempercode=a506.
- “Cleome.” The Spruce. Accessed June 28, 2021. https://www.thespruce.com/growing-spider-flowers-1402150.
- “Cleome hassleriana.” Royal Horticultural Society. Accessed June 28, 2021. https://www.rhs.org.uk/plants/6525/cleome-hassleriana/details.
