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tropical spiderflower
Scientific Name: Cleome stenophylla
Family: Capparaceae
Category: Dicot
Growth: Forb/herb
Duration: Annual
Other Names:
Spider Flower (Cleome spp.)
The genus Cleome, commonly known as spider flowers or spider plants, encompasses approximately 170 species found in tropical and warm climates worldwide. These plants are celebrated for their unique flower clusters, which have contributed to their common name.
Considerations for Pets
- Some species within the Cleome genus are described as having a pungent odor, which may be a consideration for sensitive animals.
- Some species are described as spiny or prickly.
Considerations for Children
- Some species within the Cleome genus are described as having a pungent odor, which may be a consideration for children.
- Some species are described as spiny or prickly.
Taxonomy and Nomenclature
- Scientific Name: Cleome spp.
- Family: Cleomaceae (formerly Capparidaceae)
- Common Names: Spider flower, spider plant, spider weed, spider legs, grandfather's whiskers, crown flower, tropical spiderflower, African spider flower, spiderwisp.
- Synonyms/Related Taxa: Gynandropsis spp.
- Examples of Species: Cleome hassleriana, Cleome spinosa, Cleome houtteana, Cleome sesquiorygalis, Cleome stenophylla, Cleome rutidosperma, Cleome gynandra, Cleome lutea
Distribution and Habitat
- The genus Cleome has a subcosmopolitan distribution throughout tropical and warm regions.
- Specific regions mentioned include tropical Africa, Central America, Southeast Asia (including Timor), tropical America, and Australia.
- They thrive in mild, subtropical, and tropical climates.
- One species, Cleome gynandra, is found all over tropical Africa, Asia, and the Americas.
- Some species can be found growing in sandy and clay soils in dry tropical areas.
Ecological Role
- Cleome rutidosperma is mentioned in a case history of eradication, suggesting it can be considered an invasive species in some regions.
Morphological Characteristics and Growth Habits
- Most Cleome species are tropical annual herbs.
- They are known for their unique flower clusters.
- Flowers typically have 4 hairy sepals.
- Some species have tall, strong stems with spidery-like flowers with long, waving stamens.
Traditional Uses
- The leaves of some species are used as a vegetable.
- In Thailand, the plant is versatile and used for food, medicine, as a fish poison, and as a soap substitute.
Quirky Facts
- Cleome flowers are said to mean "In the wild" to the recipient, indicating their preference for tropical climates.
- One species, Cleome gynandra, is also known as African cabbage.
Further Information
- Dave's Garden: A community for sharing tips and ideas for gardens, along with seeds and plants.
- Discover Life: Information about the biology, natural history, ecology, identification, and distribution of Cleome stenophylla.
- Instituto de Investigato Cientffica Tropical (Lisboa, Portugal): Referenced in connection to the eradication of Cleome rutidosperma.