Cleome houtteana

Cleome houtteana, commonly known as the spider flower, is a flowering plant native to South America. It belongs to the Cleomaceae family and is an annual plant that can grow up to 1.5 meters tall. The leaves are palmately compound, each featuring five leaflets, and they are alternately arranged on the stem. The flowers of Cleome houtteana are striking and fragrant, sporting long stamens that give them a spider-like appearance. They come in shades of pink, purple, white, or lavender, and bloom from mid-summer through fall. Spider flowers thrive in full sun or partial shade and prefer well-drained soil. They are easy to grow from seed but can also be propagated through cuttings or division in the spring. Cleome houtteana is noted for its traditional medicinal uses, as it contains compounds with anti-inflammatory properties. Additionally, the plant attracts pollinators such as bees and butterflies, making it an excellent addition to any garden or landscape design. In summary, Cleome houtteana is a beautiful flowering plant that adds color and interest wherever it grows, while also offering medicinal benefits for those who use it for traditional purposes.

Characteristics

Plant Type

Herb

Life Cycle

Annual

Genus

Cleome

Family

Cleomaceae

Hardiness Zone

9-11

Mature Height

0.91 m to 1.83 m

Mature Spread

46 cm to 61 cm

Leaf Color

Green, Dark Green

Leaf Type

Deciduous

Flower Color

White

Flower Size

2.54 cm to 7.62 cm

Bloom Time

Summer, Fall

Planting Time

Spring, Summer, Autumn

Harvest Time

Late summer, Fall, Early winter

Tags (9)

Common Names (9)