The cleomes, or spider flowers, are in full bloom now. They are often called spider flowers because of their tall, leggy appearance and their spider-like flowers and spidery seedpods.
These plants are really easy to grow and are prolific bloomers, so they produce lots of seeds. As these seed pods ripen and burst open, the seeds are scattered in your garden. If you plant then once, you will be blessed with new plants each year. Some would say that they can almost become a nuisance, or invasive, given ideal growing conditions. They do grow best in well-drained soil and in full sun to light shade.
Spider flowers have intricate, large showy blooms in shades of delicate pink, rose, purple, white or bi-color. They range in height from 1 1/2 – to 5- feet tall with a 1- to 2- feet spread. You can also buy dwarf varieties that work well in containers or small areas. They normally bloom from June until frost.
The leaves have 5-7 leaflets and have a strong, sometimes unpleasant fragrance. Deadheading is not necessary and neither is staking.
Spider plants work well in borders, background plantings, cutting gardens and containers. They provide a colorful background and contrast when planted with sunflowers, zinnias, and cosmos. The flowers attract hummingbirds, butterflies and bees. It is a hardy annual that is very easy to grow and is resistant to insect and disease problems. Plant once and enjoy for years.
Source: Clemson Cooperative Extension, Home and Garden Information Center
