Tropical Spiderflower

cleome viscosa

Also known as: ["Vysnaka","Vishnaka","Mustard Weed"]

Family: Cleomaceae Genus: Cleome Category: Flowers

Overview

A small annual herb with yellow flowers and pungent odor, native to tropical and subtropical regions.

Benefits & Perks

["fast growing","wildlife attractant (bees, butterflies, birds)","drought tolerant","shade tolerant"]

Botanical Classification

Phylum: Magnoliophyta
Class: Magnoliopsida
Order: Brassicales
Family: Cleomaceae
Genus: Cleome
Botanical Name: Cleome viscosa

Plant Characteristics

Basic Information
  • Category: Flowers
  • Suitable Location: outdoor garden bed in full sun
  • Suitable For:
    Busy People (low Maintenance) Outdoor Landscapers Wildlife Supporters
  • Is Weed: No
  • Allergenicity: low
Environmental Needs
  • Climate: {"temperatureRange":"15–35°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.
Maintenance Level
  • Maintenance Level: very low
  • Toughness Level: high
  • Pruning Frequency: As needed throughout the growing season; deadhead flowers weekly or bi-weekly.
  • 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). Tolerates partial shade but may produce fewer flowers.

Sunlight Tolerance Tips:
Acclimate plants gradually if moving from shade to sun. Protect from intense midday sun in hot climates. Ensure good air circulation to prevent fungal issues in humid conditions.

Warning Signs: Yellowing leaves (overwatering or poor drainage); stunted growth (nutrient deficiency or compacted soil).

Care Requirements

Care Difficulty
easy

easy

Sunlight

full sun

Rotate plant for even growth; use reflective surfaces to boost light in shaded areas; avoid sudden light changes.

Watering

every 7–10 days during active growth, reduce in winter

Water deeply to encourage root growth; avoid overwatering; adjust based on weather and soil moisture.

Soil

well-drained, sandy loam

pH: Slightly acidic to neutral (pH 6.0–7.0).

Use a mix of potting soil and perlite; avoid heavy clay soils; ensure pots have drainage holes.

Temperature

Warm temperatures (65–85°F or 18–29°C). Thrives in heat but may struggle below 50°F (10°C).

Monitor temperature extremes; adjust watering in heat; protect from frost.

Fertilizing

every 4–6 weeks during growing season

Fertilize sparingly to avoid leggy growth; apply after watering to prevent root burn; stop in late summer to prepare for dormancy.

Propagation

Methods

Stem cuttings or seeds. Seeds are the most common and reliable method.

Step-by-Step Propagation Guide
  1. Sow seeds shallowly or take 4–6 inch cuttings.
  2. Keep moist.
  3. Provide warmth and light.
  4. Transplant once established.

Best Time: Spring or early summer when the plant is actively growing.

Environment

Warm (70–75°F or 21–24°C), humid environment with bright indirect light.

Medium

Well-draining seed starting mix or a mix of peat and perlite.

Hormone

Not typically required for seeds; optional for stem cuttings to encourage rooting.

Timeline

Seeds germinate in 1–3 weeks; stem cuttings root in 2–4 weeks.

Tools Needed

Seed trays, pots, pruners, rooting hormone (optional), misting bottle.

Quick Tips

Use fresh seeds for best germination; keep soil consistently moist; provide bottom heat for faster germination.

Pruning & Repotting

Pruning Guide
Method

Pinch back tips to encourage branching; trim leggy stems to promote compact growth.

Pruning Plan

Light pruning to maintain shape and encourage bushier growth. Remove spent flowers to prolong blooming.

Tools

Clean, sharp scissors or pruning shears.

Checklist

Use clean tools; prune dead or damaged growth; remove spent flowers; shape as desired.

Repotting Guide
Best Season

Spring, before the active growing season begins.

Pot Size

One size larger pot (e.g., from 4-inch to 6-inch pot).

Method

Gently remove the plant; trim any circling roots; place in a slightly larger pot with fresh, well-draining soil; water thoroughly.

Suggestions

Repot only if the plant becomes root-bound or outgrows its container. Cleome viscosa is often grown as an annual and may not require repotting.

Checklist

Choose appropriate pot size; use fresh soil; handle roots carefully; water after repotting.

Advanced Care Tips

Watering Mastery
Watering Checklist

Check soil moisture before watering; water deeply; ensure drainage; adjust for season.

How to Apply Water Properly

Water at the base of the plant, ensuring even moisture distribution. Water early in the day to minimize evaporation and fungal issues. Ensure excess water drains away to prevent waterlogging.

Pro Tip: Use a watering can with a narrow spout to direct water to the root zone without wetting foliage.
Watering Schedule Tips

Water moderately, allowing soil to dry slightly between waterings. Reduce frequency in winter to prevent root rot.

Soil Improvement

Add perlite or sand for drainage; incorporate compost for fertility; ensure soil is loose and airy.

Temperature Stress Management
Signs of Temperature Issues

Yellowing leaves or stunted growth in cold; wilting or leaf drop in excessive heat.

Cold Stress

Growth slows or halts; leaves may turn yellow or brown; risk of frost damage in freezing temperatures.

Solution: Move to a warmer location; provide frost protection in cold climates; avoid overwatering in cool conditions.

Hot Stress

Wilting, leaf scorch, or reduced flowering due to excessive heat and dryness.

Solution: Provide partial shade during peak heat; increase watering; use mulch to retain soil moisture.

Fertilizing Guide
Fertilizing Checklist

Use balanced fertilizer; dilute properly; fertilize during active growth; avoid winter feeding.

Fertilizing Method

Use a balanced, water-soluble fertilizer diluted to half strength every 4–6 weeks during the growing season. Avoid fertilizing in winter.

Common Problems & Solutions

Yellowing leaves in Cleome viscosa can indicate nutrient deficiencies, such as nitrogen or iron, water stress, or the presence of pests or diseases that disrupt chlorophyll production.

Wilting in Cleome viscosa is often a sign of water stress, either due to insufficient watering or root damage from pests or pathogens, leading to impaired water uptake and transport.

Leaf spots on Cleome viscosa may be caused by fungal or bacterial pathogens, leading to reduced photosynthetic area, potential defoliation, and weakened plant health.

Rotting in Cleome viscosa, particularly root or stem rot, is commonly caused by overwatering or fungal pathogens, resulting in decay of plant tissues, impaired nutrient uptake, and eventual plant death.

Toxicity Warning

Cats
Slightly Toxic

Cleome viscosa can cause mild gastrointestinal upset in cats if ingested. The plant is not considered highly toxic but can lead to discomfort in felines.

⚠️ Symptoms:
vomiting diarrhea depression
🌿 Toxic Parts:
seeds leaves
⚡ Toxic If:

if eaten

Prevent cats from accessing the plant. Seek veterinary advice if ingestion is suspected.
Dogs
Slightly Toxic

In dogs, ingestion of Cleome viscosa can lead to mild gastrointestinal upset. The plant is not highly toxic but can cause discomfort, particularly in sensitive individuals.

⚠️ Symptoms:
vomiting diarrhea lethargy
🌿 Toxic Parts:
seeds leaves
⚡ Toxic If:

if eaten

Keep pets away from the plant. If ingestion occurs, consult a veterinarian.
Humans
Slightly Toxic

Cleome viscosa contains compounds that can cause mild gastrointestinal distress and allergic reactions in humans. The toxic effects are generally not severe but can be problematic for individuals with sensitivities.

⚠️ Symptoms:
nausea vomiting diarrhea skin irritation
🌿 Toxic Parts:
seeds leaves
⚡ Toxic If:

if eaten

Avoid ingestion of seeds and leaves. Wash hands thoroughly after handling the plant.
Important: Keep this plant out of reach of children and pets. If ingestion occurs, contact poison control or veterinary services immediately.

Frequently Asked Questions

Q: Is Cleome viscosa toxic to pets?

A: Reliable information on toxicity to pets is not available.

Q: How often should Cleome viscosa be watered?

A: It is drought tolerant and requires minimal watering once established.

Q: Does Cleome viscosa attract wildlife?

A: Yes, it attracts bees, butterflies, and birds.

Quick Reference
Family: Cleomaceae
Care: easy
Light: full sun
Water: every 7–10 days during activ
Suitable For: ["busy people (low maintenance)","outdoor landscapers","wildlife supporters (attracts bees, butterflies, birds)"]
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