Polanisia erosa — a medium houseplant, prefers full sun light
SPECIMEN · FROM THE LIBRARY
Polanisia erosa

Polanisia Erosa

Updated · 3 observations
ON THIS PLANT

Polanisia erosa is a sticky, 10–60 cm (3.9–23.6 in) high annual herbaceous species of flowering plant in the Cleome family, Cleomaceae, known by the common name large clammyweed. It has narrow clover-like leaves, and cream-coloured, frilly flowers with a yellowish centre, looking a bit like a small butterfly or a set of elk antlers. It naturally occurs in dry and sandy habitats in Texas and adjacent parts of Arkansas, Louisiana and Oklahoma.

A note from PlantMom

Large clammyweed possesses good disease resistance and is generally not prone to illnesses. However, it can be susceptible to pests and diseases present in its surroundings. These infections are typically not severe. Regarding care, this plant requires moderate maintenance. Regular pruning is necessary to maintain an attractive appearance and healthy growth. Fertilization can also help encourage flowering. Large clammyweed is suitable for anyone with outdoor space, such as a garden or patio, and does not demand much prior plant-care experience. It may need more attention when grown indoors.

— PlantMom
CARE GUIDE

How to keep Polanisia Erosa.

Light

Large clammyweed comes from bright, open environments where it thrives in full sun. It can tolerate partial sun but prefers direct sunlight for optimal growth. This annual and biennial plant is known for its sun-loving nature.

Temperature

Large clammyweed can tolerate a wide range of temperatures, but its occurrence may still be restricted by particular combinations of moisture and heat. It does best in warm summer climates with sufficient rainfall or watering. Long stretches of cloudy, rainy weather, as well as prolonged high temperatures, can raise the chance of Large clammyweed dying. In winter, protecting it from cold can increase the plant's survival.

Fertilizer

Resume fertilizing once Large clammyweed has opened most of its blooms to full size. Around the time the blooms are at peak, apply fertilizer every three to four weeks, weather permitting. Then, when Large clammyweed begins to produce fewer new blooms, stop fertilizing; there's no need to fertilize when the plant can't produce any more blooms.

Pruning

Large clammyweed features sticky, glandular hairs and clusters of white to pink flowers. To encourage growth and blooming, prune the plant from early to late spring, concentrating on removing dead or crowded stems. Make sure to clean your tools to prevent the spread of disease. Regular pruning enhances the health and visual appeal of large clammyweed.

CHARACTERISTICS

Botanical profile.

Plant Type
Herb
Life Cycle
Annual
Genus
Polanisia
Family
Cleomaceae
Hardiness Zone
8-11
Mature Height
30 cm to 61 cm
Mature Spread
20 cm to 40 cm
Leaf Color
Green, Dark Green
Leaf Type
Deciduous
Flower Color
White, Pink
Flower Size
1.02 cm to 2.03 cm
Bloom Time
Summer, Early fall, Mid fall
Planting Time
Spring, Summer, Autumn
Harvest Time
Late summer, Fall, Early winter
ALSO KNOWN AS

Other names.

en Large clammyweed
ALSO IN THE LIBRARY

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