Discover Nature at JCU Plants NQ Weeds by scientific name A-P Cleome gynandra

Cleome gynandra

(Cat’s Whiskers)

FAMILY

Cleomaceae/Capparaceae

Species

Cleome gynandra

Common name(s)

Cat’s Whiskers, African Cabbage

Flower colour; life form

White, pink, rarely yellow; erect herb to1.3 m tall usually less

Distinguishing features

One of many plants with the same common name, this introduced herb is used as a vegetable in Africa and India but is bitter. Stem with glandular hairs, foetid smell, prickles absent. Leaves compound with 3-7 leaflets largest to 7 cm long. Flowers usually white or pinkish 1-4 cm wide. Fruit a thin capsule or siliqua 4-10 cm long.

Scan of Cleome