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Spider flower, Cleome hassleriana is
a common annual flower from South America (Paraguay, Uruguay, Argentina and
southern Brazil) that also goes by other common names including spider legs and
grandfather’s whiskers. The common name of spider flower comes from the
appearance of the long, thread-like stamens of the individual flowers and the
elongate seedpods that develop below the blooming flowers. It has been a garden
favorite since the 1800’s.
This tender annual grows quickly from
seed to form tall, strong stems up to 6 feet tall from a stout taproot. Plants
branch readily, and given enough space, can grow as wide as they are tall. The
alternate leaves are palmately compound with 5-7 leaflets tapered at the base
(although the leaves on the upper parts of the stems are smaller and simple).
Plants bloom from early summer until
frost in a dense, 6-8 inch wide, ever-lengthening terminal inflorescence (a
raceme). Each 1–1½” wide individual flower on a 2-inch pedicel has 4 reflexed
light green sepals, 4 clawed petals and 6 erect to spreading stamens that grow
to 3-inches long with yellow-orange anthers. The petals may be white, pink,
rose or purple. The flowers may be visited by hummingbirds, hummingbird
moths, many types of bees and butterflies. Bats are thought to be the main
pollinator in its native tropical habitat.
Spider flower grows best in full sun
in moist, well-drained soil. Although it tolerates dry conditions, watering
will promote better growth and flowering, but overwatering and overfertilizing
causes leggy growth. Staking is usually not necessary, except in windy
locations. Pinching them back when young will promote a shorter, bushier plant,
otherwise they tend to be upright and columnar. Because the plants are somewhat
spiny and sticky, you may want to wear gloves when handling the plants. Cleome
has few insects or disease problems and is generally not favored by deer or
rabbits.
Growing Instructions
Start this annual indoors 6-8 weeks
before the average date of last frost or seed directly in the garden after all
danger of frost has passed. Seed must be cold stratified (just like they would
be if they overwintered outside) first, press the seed into the soil without
covering it (this plant requires light to germinate), then should germinate in
a little over a week. Wait until the soil has warmed to plant in the garden,
spacing the plants (or thin if self-seeded) at least a foot apart (up to 3 feet
if you want a bushier plant). Self-seeded plants need to be thinned, or all
will be weak and spindly.
Richard (verified owner) –
The seeds had a great germination rate
Lucas (verified owner) –
These seeds came right up and started producing squash. Can’t ask for more than that.
Aiden (verified owner) –
So far so good!
Nathaniel (verified owner) –
The product is firmly packed.
Robert (verified owner) –
Good service.