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. |
