Cleome

Cleome (Cleome hassleriana)

Cleome (Cleome hassleriana), also known as Spider Flower, is a striking annual known for its tall, airy growth habit and unique, spidery blooms. With long stamens extending beyond the petals, its flowers create a distinctive, elegant look that adds movement and texture to gardens.

Distinctive Features

Cleome produces large clusters of pink, purple, or white flowers that bloom from summer to frost. The plant's height and whimsical flowers make it an excellent choice for adding vertical interest to garden beds and borders. Its slightly sticky stems and palmate foliage contribute to its unique texture.

Growing Conditions

• Sun Exposure: Thrives in full sun but can tolerate light shade.
• Soil: Prefers well-draining, moderately fertile soil.
• Water: Moderate watering; drought-tolerant once established.
• USDA Hardiness Zones: Grown as an annual in most climates.

Ideal Uses

• Garden Borders: Adds height and structure to flower beds.
• Pollinator Gardens: Attracts bees, butterflies, and hummingbirds.
• Cut Flowers: Long-lasting and eye-catching in floral arrangements.

Low Maintenance Care

Cleome is a robust, self-seeding annual that requires minimal care to thrive, making it an excellent choice for easy, low-maintenance gardening.

• Watering: Water regularly but avoid waterlogging.
• Pruning: Deadhead spent blooms to encourage continuous flowering.
• Fertilizing: Minimal feeding required; a light application of balanced fertilizer in midseason can boost blooms.
• Propagation: Easily grown from seed; self-seeds readily.

Why Choose Cleome?

With its tall, graceful stems and unique floral display, Cleome is a fantastic choice for adding drama and movement to any garden setting.

• Elegant, Unusual Blooms: Creates a striking visual effect.
• Pollinator-Friendly: Supports bees, butterflies, and hummingbirds.
• Versatile Placement: Thrives in beds, borders, and containers.
• Focal Point: Adds height and texture to the landscape.

For those looking to introduce a unique, pollinator-friendly plant to their garden, Cleome (Cleome hassleriana) is an excellent choice.