annual

Sparkler Blush Spider Flower

Cleome hassleriana 'Sparkler Blush'

The Story

Plant Bio

Cleome hassleriana is a fast-growing annual native to South America, known for its airy, spider-like flower heads with long, protruding stamens and palmately compound leaves. Plants may have a strong, musky scent.

This cultivar features blush pink flower clusters and has a more compact growth habit than other Cleome varieties.

Uses & Benefits:

Ornamental UsesBright, eye-catching flowers add vibrant color to sunny gardens.
Practical UsesDrought-tolerant and low-maintenance, ideal for water-wise landscaping.
Ecological BenefitsProvides nectar for pollinators like bees and butterflies.
SpeciesCleome hasslerianaSpider Flower

Essentials

At a Glance

Plant Type

Annual

Height

42 inches

Width

18 inches

Light

Full Sun, Partial Sun

Zones

4, 5, 6, 7, 8, 9, 10

Water

Low to Medium

Humidity

Average

Lifespan

Annual

Native To

South America

Toxicity

Sap may cause skin irritation; minor toxicity if ingested.

Planting

How to Grow

  1. Tuck seeds into well-drained soil in early spring for best germination.
  2. Mist cuttings regularly to maintain humidity and promote rooting.
  3. Thin seedlings to prevent overcrowding, leaving 12-18 inches apart.
  4. Water deeply once a week during dry spells to encourage strong growth.
  5. Apply balanced fertilizer monthly during the growing season.
  6. Deadhead spent flowers to promote continuous blooming.

Pro Tip

Plant in full sun for vibrant blooms and vigorous growth.

Keep It Thriving

Care Guide

Do

  • Water consistently during dry periods 🌱
  • Prune dead or damaged stems to maintain shape
  • Fertilize monthly during active growth

Don't

  • Avoid overwatering to prevent root rot ❌
  • Do not disturb roots during flowering
  • Skip fertilizing in late fall

Seasonal Care Calendar

TaskJanFebMarAprMayJunJulAugSepOctNovDec
Deadhead
Fertilize
Harvest
Plant

Watch Out For

Pests & Diseases

Common Pests

Common Diseases

In the Garden

Landscape Uses & Companions

Landscape Uses

Vivid border with pink‑flowered accentsDrought-tolerant shrub for sunny bedsWildflower meadow centerpiece

Companion Plants

Multiply

Propagation Methods

Good to Know

Common Questions

Sparkler Blush Spider Flower questions

What zones can Sparkler Blush Spider Flower grow in?

Sparkler Blush Spider Flower is hardy in USDA Zones 4–10. Inside that range it survives winter in the ground; outside it, grow it as an annual or a container plant you protect.

Is Sparkler Blush Spider Flower deer resistant?

Yes — Sparkler Blush Spider Flower is rated deer-resistant. Deer typically pass it over, though extreme hunger can override any plant's defenses.

When does Sparkler Blush Spider Flower bloom?

Sparkler Blush Spider Flower typically blooms in summer to fall through late summer. Exact timing shifts a week or two with your zone — Sow's bloom calendar maps it to your garden.

Does Sparkler Blush Spider Flower need full sun?

Sparkler Blush Spider Flower does best in full sun to part shade. In hot climates, afternoon shade keeps blooms fresher longer.

Is Sparkler Blush Spider Flower drought tolerant?

Yes — once established (usually after the first full season), Sparkler Blush Spider Flower handles dry spells with minimal watering. Water deeply its first year to build the root system that makes that possible.

Keep exploring

Grow Sparkler Blush Spider Flower with confidence

See it in a design of your actual yard, get zone-matched care reminders, and track it season by season in your garden journal.