Cleome Facts

Overview

Cleomes are old-fashioned annuals that bloom in the summer and fall. The flowers are fragrant and attract hummingbirds. Now labeled as Cleome hassleriana, they may be called Cleome spinosa in older references.

Flower Characteristics

The unusual flowers have long stamens and clawed petals that resemble spiders, earning Cleome the common name of Spider Flower. The rose, pink or white flowers are 1 to 2 inches across with 2- to 3-inch-long stamens. They begin blooming at the bottom of the stem and continue up to the tip. Slender seed pods form after flowering.

Plant Characteristics

Cleomes are large plants and may grow 6 feet tall, depending on the variety. Since they have a stout taproot and sturdy growth, they seldom need staking. The palmate leaves are 5 to 6 inches long with 5 to 7 leaflets. Most Cleomes have spiny stems, but some newer varieties are spineless.

Varieties

The Sparkler series are mid-sized plants at 3 feet tall with pink, rose or white flowers. The Queen series are larger plants, 3 to 5 feet tall, with pink or rose blooms. Some smaller varieties include Helen Campbell at 2 to 3 feet tall, and Linde Armstrong at 1 1/2 to 2 feet tall. Both of these varieties have pink flowers.

Growing Conditions.

Cleomes are easy to start from seed and easy to grow. They are not particular about soil type, but they prefer full sun. They are annuals that will reseed in Zones 8 to 11. They will not reseed in colder zones.

Uses

Taller Cleomes can be planted at the back of a flower bed or border. Shorter Cleomes can be used with other annuals and perennials in the front of a bed. Cleomes are good choices for Victorian or Colonial designs or in a wildflower garden.

Photo by: thisisbossi/Flickr, Carl E. Lewis/Flickr