Annuals

Cleome houtteana

Spider flower

Representative spider flower. Colors and forms vary by selection.

Tall stems carry airy flower clusters with long, spidery stamens. Cleome gives summer borders height without a solid wall of foliage and draws a variety of pollinators. This general listing includes selections whose flower color and final height can vary.

At a glance

Sun: Full sun to part shade
Mature size: 3 ft.–6 ft. (varies by selection) tall × 1 ft. 6 in.–2 ft. (varies by selection) wide
Water: Regular moisture; well-drained soil
Bloom: Summer, fall

Sizes & prices

4.5"$5.99
6"$9.99

Catalog updated September 8, 2026. This is not a live stock count; please call to confirm availability and price.

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Resistance & tolerances

Drought: Tolerant once established; containers still need watering.
Wet soil: Needs good drainage; avoid standing water.
Heat: Tolerant.
Deer & rabbits: Usually less favored; not browse-proof.

Resistance is not a guarantee; deer and rabbits may browse any plant.

Pollinators & wildlife

Attracts: Bees, Butterflies, Hummingbirds

Growing & care

Pruning: Remove spent seedpods if you want to reduce self-seeding.

Sources & photo credits

NC State Extension

Photo: Schoinard · CC BY 3.0

Reviewed September 22, 2026. Growing conditions vary by location.