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Description
Cleome Guaranitica, also known as spider flower, is a stunning flowering plant that belongs to the family Cleomaceae. It is native to South America but has been widely cultivated in many parts of the world due to its beautiful blooms and hardiness. The plant can grow up to 4 feet tall and produces large, showy flowers that come in shades of pink, purple, and white.
Taxonomic Information
| Domain | Eukarya |
|---|---|
| Kingdom | Plantae |
| Phylum | Tracheophyta |
| Class | Magnoliopsida |
| Order | Capparales |
| Family | Cleomaceae |
| Genus | Cleome |
Appearance
Cleome Guaranitica has a unique appearance that makes it stand out in any garden. The plant has a tall, slender stem that is covered in small, green leaves. At the top of the stem, large clusters of flowers bloom, each with four or five petals that are arranged in a star shape. The petals are delicate and slightly curved, giving the flowers a wispy, spider-like appearance. The blooms can reach up to 6 inches in diameter and come in shades of pink, purple, and white.
Care Guide
Cleome Guaranitica is a hardy plant that is easy to care for. Here are some tips on how to keep your plant healthy and blooming:- Water: Cleome Guaranitica prefers moist soil, so make sure to water it regularly. However, be careful not to overwater as this can cause root rot.- Fertilization: Fertilize your plant once a month during the growing season with a balanced fertilizer.- Soil: Cleome Guaranitica thrives in well-draining soil that is rich in organic matter. – Sunlight: The plant prefers full sun but can tolerate partial shade.- Hardiness Zones: Cleome Guaranitica is hardy in USDA zones 9-11.
Common Pests & Diseases
Cleome Guaranitica is relatively pest and disease-resistant. However, it can still be susceptible to some common garden problems such as:- Aphids: These small insects can be found on the undersides of leaves and can cause damage to the plant. Use insecticidal soap to control them.- Leaf spot: This fungal disease can cause brown spots on the leaves. Remove infected leaves and treat with a fungicide.- Spider mites: These tiny pests can cause yellowing and stippling on the leaves. Use a miticide to control them.
Habitat
Cleome Guaranitica is native to South America, where it grows in open fields and along roadsides. It prefers warm temperatures and well-draining soil. The plant has been widely cultivated in many parts of the world and is a popular choice for gardens and landscaping due to its hardiness and beautiful blooms.
Question and Answer
Q: Is Cleome Guaranitica an annual or perennial plant?
A: Cleome Guaranitica is an annual plant, meaning it completes its life cycle in one growing season.
Q: Can I grow Cleome Guaranitica in a container?
A: Yes, Cleome Guaranitica can be grown in containers as long as they are large enough to accommodate the plant’s root system.
Q: How often should I fertilize my Cleome Guaranitica plant?
A: Fertilize your plant once a month during the growing season with a balanced fertilizer.
Q: Can Cleome Guaranitica grow in partial shade?
A: Yes, Cleome Guaranitica can tolerate partial shade but prefers full sun.
Related Plants
– Cleome hassleriana (Pink Queen)- Cleome spinosa (Purple Cleome)- Cleome serrulata (Rocky Mountain Beeplant)- Cleome viscosa (Sticky Cleome)
References
– “Cleome guianensis.” Missouri Botanical Garden. Accessed July 28, 2021. https://www.missouribotanicalgarden.org/PlantFinder/PlantFinderDetails.aspx?taxonid=279355&isprofile=0&.- “Cleome Guaranitica.” Plants for a Future. Accessed July 28, 2021. https://pfaf.org/user/Plant.aspx?LatinName=Cleome+guaranitica.
