A few weeks ago I added a Cleome plant to the patio landscape. This is my first time trying to grow this plant, and I have only seen it growing one other time in Athens. I must say that the blooms look prettier in the morning than they do in the late afternoon. I am hoping to collect the seeds from this plant to add more plants to the container next year.
Photo by: James Morgan
Cleome, also known as the spider flower, is useful for background and screening, and grows well in full sun to partial shade, making it ideal for my backyard. I have mine in a container, but if planting in a flower bed make sure the soil is well-drained. Cleome can grow under poor conditions (soil and drought) but requires ample moisture and good fertility for vigorous growth. Even though cleome is considered an annual, it will re-seed every year. As the plant grows the flower moves up the stalk, leaving behind long and slender seed pods giving it the common name, spider flower. Collect the seed pods before they burst open to help control where cleome plants will appear the following year. Plant seeds about a foot apart directly into well drained soil.
Photo by: Barbara H Smith
This is a tall leggy plant, growing about 1 ½ feet to 5 feet tall, with a big flower in colors from white to shades of pink and lilac; it will look lovely as a standalone mass and certain to draw your attention. First, the leaves resemble those of a marijuana plant and the flowers can reach about six inches across during the growing season. The flower also gives off an unpleasant scent similar to citronella.
Photo by: James Morgan
For more information on Cleomes or others annuals and perennials please contact me at 229-436-7216 or morganjl@uga.edu
https://hgic.clemson.edu/factsheet/cleome-or-spider-flower/
https://secure.caes.uga.edu/extension/publications/files/pdf/B%20954_3.PDF