3 named cultivars

annual

Spider Flower

Cleome hassleriana

The Story

Plant Bio

Cleome hassleriana, commonly known as spider flower, is a fast-growing annual that features tall stems topped with clusters of showy flowers.

Known for its unique flower structure that resembles a spider, it also attracts various pollinators.

Uses & Benefits:

Cleome hassleriana offers striking, spider-like pink or white flowers that attract pollinators and add vibrant color to borders.

Its tall stature provides excellent backdrop planting and natural privacy screens.

Supports bees, butterflies, and hummingbirds, promoting garden biodiversity.

Essentials

At a Glance

Plant Type

Annual

Height

48 inches

Width

24 inches

Light

Full Sun

Zones

Water

Moderate

Humidity

Average

Lifespan

Annual

Native To

South America

Toxicity

Can cause skin irritation; seeds are toxic if ingested.

Planting

How to Grow

Tuck seeds 1/4 inch deep into moist soil in spring.
Maintain consistent watering during germination, about 2 weeks.
Place in full sun for optimal growth and flowering.
Thin seedlings to 12 inches apart once established.
Fertilize monthly with a balanced fertilizer during the growing season.
Pinch back early growth to encourage bushier plants.

Pro Tip

Start seeds indoors 4-6 weeks before last frost for earlier blooms.

Keep It Thriving

Care Guide

Do

Water regularly to keep soil moist but not soggy 🌱
Pinch back to promote bushier growth
Apply balanced fertilizer monthly during peak season
Deadhead spent flowers to encourage more blooms

Don't

Avoid overwatering to prevent root rot ❌
Don’t plant in overly shaded areas
Refrain from fertilizing late in the season
Don’t ignore pest signs or disease symptoms

Seasonal Care Calendar

Task	Jan	Feb	Mar	Apr	May	Jun	Jul	Aug	Sep	Oct	Nov	Dec
Pest Check
Plant
Stake

Watch Out For

Pests & Diseases

Common Pests

Common Diseases

In the Garden

Landscape Uses & Companions

Landscape Uses

Vivid sunflower-like borderWildflower meadow accentColorful container display

Companion Plants

Marigolds Sunflowers CosmosZinnias

Multiply

Propagation Methods

Good to Know

Common Questions

Spider Flower questions

What zones can Spider Flower grow in?

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

Is Spider Flower deer resistant?

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

When does Spider Flower bloom?

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

Does Spider Flower need full sun?

Spider Flower does best in full sun (6+ hours).

Is Spider Flower drought tolerant?

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