Cleome gynandra

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Cleome gynandra 1

Cleome gynandra, commonly known as spider plant, African cabbage, or cat's whiskers, is a species of plant in the family Cleomaceae. It is native to tropical and subtropical regions of Africa and Asia, but it has also been introduced to other parts of the world, including Australia and the Americas.

Description

Cleome gynandra is an annual herb that can grow up to 1 meter in height. The plant has a distinctive appearance with its palmate leaves, which are divided into five to seven leaflets. The flowers are white or pink and are arranged in racemes. The plant produces long, slender seed pods that contain numerous small seeds.

Habitat

Cleome gynandra thrives in a variety of habitats, including savannas, grasslands, and disturbed areas such as roadsides and agricultural fields. It prefers well-drained soils and can tolerate a range of soil types, from sandy to clayey.

Uses

Cleome gynandra is widely used in traditional medicine and as a leafy vegetable. The leaves are rich in vitamins and minerals, making them a valuable food source in many cultures. The plant is also used in agriculture as a green manure and for pest control due to its insect-repellent properties.

Cultivation

The plant is relatively easy to cultivate and can be grown from seeds. It requires full sun and regular watering, especially during dry periods. Cleome gynandra is often grown in home gardens and small-scale farms.

Nutritional Value

The leaves of Cleome gynandra are highly nutritious, containing significant amounts of vitamin A, vitamin C, calcium, and iron. They are often cooked and eaten as a vegetable in various dishes.

Medicinal Uses

In traditional medicine, Cleome gynandra is used to treat a variety of ailments, including headaches, stomachaches, and fevers. The plant is also believed to have anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties.

Related Species

Cleome gynandra is closely related to other species in the genus Cleome, such as Cleome hassleriana and Cleome serrulata.

Related Pages

• Cleomaceae
• Traditional medicine
• Leaf vegetable
• Green manure
• Pest control