Spider Flower (Cleome hassleriana)

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Sunlight Full sun to partial shade; thrives in bright sunlight, tolerates mild afternoon shade in hot climates

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Watering Water deeply when the top 5 cm of soil dries out; avoid overwatering to prevent root rot

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Temperature Thrives in warm temperatures; intolerant of frost; optimal growth range 18–28°C

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Leaf: Palmately compound with 5–7 serrated leaflets; green, slightly sticky glandular texture
Flower: Terminal racemes with pink, purple, white, or lavender petals; long, protruding stamens create spider-like silhouette
Stem: Erect, branching, lightly hairy stems with subtle glandular secretions

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Watering

Maintain consistent soil moisture; increase frequency during extreme heatwaves

Fertilization

Apply balanced liquid fertilizer every 2 weeks. Reduce feeding as flowering declines in late autumn

Banana peel tea：Soak 2–3 chopped banana peels in 4 L water for 3 days; dilute 1:1 with water before applying to soil; avoid contact with foliage

Pruning

Deadhead spent blooms regularly to extend the flowering period
Pinch back young seedlings to encourage bushier, more compact growth
Remove yellowing lower leaves to improve air circulation and reduce disease risk
Cut back the entire plant to ground level after flowering to tidy garden beds

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Warning: this plant may be toxic.

Pets & Humans

Pets: ASPCA-verified non-toxic; safe for cats with no reported toxicity

Humans: Non-toxic to humans; no known adverse health effects from ingestion or contact

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Culture: Symbolizes delicate elusiveness in some floral traditions

Usage: Ornamental garden plant; cut flower for fresh arrangements