Cleome hassleriana, commonly known as spider flower or pink queen, is a flowering plant native to South America. It is a popular choice for gardens due to its attractive pink or white flowers that bloom in the summer. The plant can reach heights of up to 4 feet and features long, slender stems topped with clusters of flowers. Its leaves are palmate, composed of five serrated leaflets.
Spider flower thrives in full sun and well-drained soil but can also tolerate some shade and drought conditions once established. Additionally, it is known for attracting pollinators such as bees, butterflies, and hummingbirds with its nectar-rich flowers.
Overall, Cleome hassleriana is an easy-to-grow annual that adds color and interest to any garden with minimal maintenance required.
Spider flower exhibits good resistance to disease and, in general, is not prone to illnesses. However, it can be vulnerable to pests and diseases present in its surroundings. These infections are typically mild. Regarding care, the plant requires a moderate level of maintenance. It should be pruned regularly to preserve an attractive appearance and healthy growth. Fertilizing can also help stimulate flowering. Spider flower is well suited to anyone with an outdoor area, such as a garden or patio, and does not demand extensive care experience. It may need more attention when grown indoors.
How to keep Cleome Hassleriana.
Light
The spider flower thrives with plenty of sunlight, promoting healthy growth. Its natural habitat is well-lit, which helps its development. While full sun encourages blooming, it can tolerate lower light levels. Conversely, too little sun weakens it, and excessively strong light can cause harm.
Water
Cleomes are relatively drought-tolerant once established, making them excellent for xeriscape gardens. Organic mulch layered around your plant will help decrease the watering frequency.
Humidity
This plant prefers dry conditions, so don't mist it. However, watering it less often can also thrive in higher humidity.
Temperature
Spider flower naturally occurs in areas with temperatures between 68 and 100 °F (20 and 38 ℃). The plant prospers in these warm climates. Seasonal care may be necessary, especially during cold winter periods when it should be moved indoors or supplied with extra heat.
Fertilizer
Once most of the Spider flower's blooms have opened and reached full size, you should begin fertilizing again. When blooms are at their peak output, apply fertilizer once every three to four weeks, as weather permits. Then, once the Spider flower starts producing fewer new blooms, stop fertilizing; there's no need to feed the plant when it can no longer produce more blooms.
Pruning
As relatively low-upkeep plants, Cleomes only need light pruning. Trim off dead or damaged leaves during the growing season. During planting, you can cut them back by about half once they are in the ground to stimulate new growth.
Pot & Repot
When repotting Spider flower, choose a pot that's 1-2 inches (2.5–5.1 cm) larger in diameter and ensure it has good drainage. Use a well-draining potting mix and consider adding perlite for extra drainage. Repot in spring or early summer, water thoroughly afterward, and keep it in a shady spot at first.
Toxicity
Cleomes are non-toxic flowering plants that are safe for children, dogs, cats, and even horses. You can keep them as outdoor garden plants, indoor houseplants, or cut arrangements with no problem.
Further reading →
The toxicity and danger assessments provided are for reference only. We do not assure their accuracy, so it's crucial not to depend on them. Seek professional advice when necessary for accurate guidance.
Botanical profile.
- Plant Type
- Herb
- Life Cycle
- Annual
- Genus
- Cleome
- Family
- Cleomaceae
- Hardiness Zone
- 5-12
- Mature Height
- 1.52 m
- Mature Spread
- 46 cm to 61 cm
- Leaf Color
- Green
- Leaf Type
- Deciduous
- Flower Color
- Pink, White, Purple
- Flower Size
- 0.51 cm
- Bloom Time
- Summer
- Planting Time
- Spring, Summer
- Harvest Time
- Mid summer, Late summer, Early fall
- Native Area
- Colombia, Brazil, Nicaragua, Ecuador, Costa Rica
Other names.
