Consulta Plantas

Care of the plant Cleome spinosa or Spider flower

The genus Cleome, family Cleomaceae, includes about 150 species of annual herbaceous plants native to the Tropics. Some species are: Cleome spinosa, Cleome isomeris, Cleome viscosa, Cleome violacea, Cleome pilosa.

Common names: Spider flower, Spider plant, Spider weed, Bee plant. This species is native to South America.

They are annual plants with erect branches and digitate leaves that reach 1 meter (3.28 feet) in height. The leaves have glands that make them slightly sticky. The curious pedunculated flowers have 4 pink, red, purple or white petals that contrast with the long dark stamens.

They are used to form groups in the garden with other plants such as Tagetes. They are suitable for growing in large pots on terraces.

The Cleome spinosa needs a sunny exposure protected from the wind. They do not resist frost.

The soil should be deep, light, well drained, and contain organic matter.

Water every 3 days (without watering); if it's very hot, water every 2 days.

Fertilize with compost at the time of planting.

It's not usually attacked by pests; it can turn yellowish and produce few flowers if it does not receive enough light, the substrate is poor or there is excess watering.

They propagate by seeds sown in spring, at 18 ºC and under glass, but it is a slow process.

Images of the plant Cleome spinosa or Spider flower