No images found for this plant ID: 11036.

Ensure images are uploaded to the Media Library and tagged with "11036" in the "plant_image_tag" taxonomy.

Safe for Children?

Safe for Dogs?

Safe for Cats?

Safe for Reptiles?

twisted cleomella

Scientific Name: Cleomella plocasperma

Family: Capparaceae

Category: Dicot

Growth: Forb/herb

Duration: Annual

Other Names:

       

Cleomella plocasperma

Cleomella plocasperma, a member of the cleome family (Cleomaceae), is known by the common names twisted cleomella and alkali stinkweed.

Considerations for Pets

  • The plant is commonly referred to as "stinkweed" due to its odor, which might be unpleasant to pets.

Taxonomy and Nomenclature

  • Family: Cleomaceae (formerly sometimes included in Capparaceae)
  • Scientific Name: Cleomella plocasperma S. Watson
  • Synonyms:
    • Cleomella plocasperma S. Watson var. mojavensis (Payson) Crum ex Jeps.
    • Cleomella stenosperma Coville

Distribution and Habitat

Cleomella plocasperma is native to California and found in other areas as well. It thrives in alkali soil conditions.

Morphological Characteristics

  • It is a dicot and an annual herb.

Quirky Facts

  • The species name "plocasperma" comes from the Greek words "ploc" (twisted) and "sperma" (seed), referring to its oddly shaped fruits.
  • Another species, Cleomella obtusifolia, has sunshiny yellow flowers and is frequently found growing in the same location as Cleomella species.

Further Information

  • USDA PLANTS database
  • Discover Life
  • CalPhotos
  • Garden Guides