Spider Plant
cleome spinosa
Also known as: ["Stinking Clover","Spiderwisp"]
Overview
An annual flowering plant known for its distinctive spidery flowers and long, slender seed pods.
Benefits & Perks
["long-flowering","wildlife attractant (bees, butterflies, birds)","fast growing"]
Botanical Classification
| Phylum: | Magnoliophyta |
| Class: | Magnoliopsida |
| Order: | Brassicales |
| Family: | Cleomaceae |
| Genus: | Cleome |
| Botanical Name: | Cleome spinosa |
Plant Characteristics
Basic Information
- Category: Flowers
- Suitable Location: outdoor garden bed in full sun
- Suitable For:
- Is Weed: No
- Allergenicity: low
Environmental Needs
- Climate: {"temperatureRange":"10–35°C"}
- Hardiness: {"zones":"8–11"}
- Misting: rarely required, only if ambient humidity is very low
- Drainage: Fast-draining to prevent waterlogging.
- Soil Type: Well-draining, loamy soil with added organic matter; avoid heavy clay soils.
Maintenance Level
- Maintenance Level: moderate
- Toughness Level: moderate
- Pruning Frequency: Light pruning every 4–6 weeks during the growing season; deadheading flowers as they fade.
- Pruning Intensity: Light to moderate; avoid heavy pruning unless necessary to control size.
Care Details
Ideal Sunlight Coverage:
Full sun (6–8 hours of direct sunlight daily); adjust for intense summer heat by providing partial afternoon shade.
Sunlight Tolerance Tips:
Acclimate plants gradually to intense sunlight; avoid sudden exposure to prevent leaf scorch; for indoor plants, place near a south-facing window with unfiltered light.
Care Requirements
Care Difficulty
easymoderate
Sunlight
full sun
Rotate the plant weekly for even growth; use sheer curtains to filter harsh midday sun; avoid placing in shaded areas for prolonged periods.
Watering
every 7–10 days during active growth, reduce in winter
Water thoroughly but infrequently; ensure soil dries between waterings; avoid overhead watering to prevent fungal issues.
Soil
well-draining, loamy soil with moderate organic matter
pH: Slightly acidic to neutral (pH 6.0–7.0).
Use a cactus or succulent mix as a base; avoid overwatering to prevent soil compaction; amend with organic matter for better structure.
Temperature
Warm temperatures (65–85°F or 18–29°C); thrives in heat but may require shade in extreme summer conditions.
Avoid sudden temperature fluctuations; protect from frost; ensure good air circulation in hot weather.
Fertilizing
every 4–6 weeks during growing season
Dilute fertilizer to half-strength to avoid burning roots; apply after watering to prevent salt buildup; avoid fertilizing newly planted or stressed plants.
Propagation
Methods
Stem cuttings or seeds; stem cuttings are faster and more reliable for home growers.
Step-by-Step Propagation Guide
- Take a 4–6 inch cutting below a leaf node.
- Remove lower leaves.
- Dip in rooting hormone (optional).
- Plant in moist medium.
- Keep warm and humid.
Best Time: Spring or early summer when the plant is actively growing.
Environment
Warm (70–75°F or 21–24°C), humid, and bright but indirect light.
Medium
Well-draining potting mix (e.g., perlite and peat moss) or water for initial rooting.
Hormone
Optional but recommended for faster rooting.
Timeline
Roots develop in 2–4 weeks; new growth appears in 4–6 weeks.
Tools Needed
Pruning shears, rooting hormone, small pots, well-draining medium.
Quick Tips
Use healthy, non-flowering stems; maintain high humidity with a plastic cover; avoid direct sunlight during rooting.
Pruning & Repotting
Pruning Guide
Method
Pinch back tips to encourage branching; remove dead or damaged stems; deadhead spent flowers to promote continuous blooming.
Pruning Plan
Prune to maintain shape, encourage bushier growth, and remove spent flowers to prolong blooming.
Tools
Pruning shears, gloves, clean cutting tools.
Checklist
Use clean tools; prune in early morning; remove dead or diseased parts; avoid over-pruning.
Repotting Guide
Best Season
Spring, before the active growing season begins.
Pot Size
One size larger pot (e.g., +2 inches in diameter); ensure good drainage holes.
Method
Remove plant gently; trim any circling roots; place in a slightly larger pot with fresh, well-draining soil; water thoroughly after repotting.
Suggestions
Repot every 1–2 years or when roots fill the pot; beneficial for container-grown plants to refresh soil and provide space.
Checklist
Choose appropriate pot size; use fresh soil mix; trim roots if necessary; water after repotting.
Advanced Care Tips
Watering Mastery
Watering Checklist
Check soil moisture before watering; water deeply at the base; ensure proper drainage.
How to Apply Water Properly
Water at the base of the plant, ensuring moisture reaches the root zone; water early in the day to minimize evaporation and disease risk; allow excess water to drain away.
Watering Schedule Tips
Water deeply once the top inch of soil feels dry; reduce frequency in winter to prevent root rot.
Soil Improvement
Add perlite or coarse sand for drainage; incorporate compost for fertility; ensure soil is loose and aerated.
Temperature Stress Management
Signs of Temperature Issues
Wilting, yellowing leaves, or stunted growth in cold; leaf scorch or bud drop in excessive heat.
Cold Stress
Low temperatures slow growth and can cause root damage; prolonged cold may lead to plant death.
Solution: Move potted plants indoors during frost; use row covers or cloches for garden plants; ensure good drainage to prevent cold soil compaction.
Hot Stress
Excessive heat can cause leaf scorch, flower drop, and reduced vigor; water stress may exacerbate heat damage.
Solution: Provide afternoon shade; increase watering frequency; use mulch to retain soil moisture and cool roots.
Fertilizing Guide
Fertilizing Checklist
Use balanced fertilizer; dilute properly; apply during active growth; avoid over-fertilization.
Fertilizing Method
Use a balanced, water-soluble fertilizer every 4–6 weeks during the growing season; reduce or stop fertilizing in winter.
Common Problems & Solutions
Toxicity Warning
Cats
Slightly ToxicCleome spinosa can cause mild gastrointestinal issues in cats if ingested. The plant is not highly toxic but can lead to mild symptoms.
⚠️ Symptoms:
🌿 Toxic Parts:
⚡ Toxic If:
if eaten
Dogs
Slightly ToxicIngestion of Cleome spinosa by dogs can lead to mild gastrointestinal upset. The plant is not typically life-threatening but can cause discomfort.
⚠️ Symptoms:
🌿 Toxic Parts:
⚡ Toxic If:
if eaten
Humans
Slightly ToxicCleome spinosa contains compounds that can cause mild gastrointestinal distress and other mild symptoms upon ingestion. The plant's effects are generally not severe but can be problematic in large quantities.
⚠️ Symptoms:
🌿 Toxic Parts:
⚡ Toxic If:
if eaten
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: How tall does Cleome spinosa grow?
A: It typically grows to 3-5 feet in height.
Q: Does Cleome spinosa attract pollinators?
A: Yes, it is highly attractive to bees, butterflies, and hummingbirds.
Q: Is Cleome spinosa suitable for container gardening?
A: While possible, it is best suited for garden beds due to its height and spread.
Quick Reference
| Family: | Cleomaceae |
| Care: | easy |
| Light: | full sun |
| Water: | every 7–10 days during activ |
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