Spider Flower

Spider flower is the common name attached to this record for the genus Cleome. Kew accepts Cleome in the family Cleomaceae, a genus with many species whose garden forms and growing needs vary. ## Identification and garden forms The [Kew taxonomic record](https://powo.science.kew.org/taxon/urn:lsid:ipni.org:names:30009982-2) establishes the genus and family but does not identify a species for this record. The name spider flower is often used for cultivated Cleome hassleriana. Clemson Extension’s [garden factsheet](https://hgic.clemson.edu/factsheet/cleome-or-spider-flower/) describes that commonly grown species, including its seasonal flowers and variation among garden selections; those traits should not be generalized to every species in Cleome. ## Choosing a site Use species- or cultivar-specific information when selecting exposure, soil, water, and mature space. For C. hassleriana, Clemson describes full sun to light shade and average, well-drained soil, with flowering from summer into frost; other Cleome species may differ. ## Maintenance Follow care guidance for the identified species or selection. For commonly grown C. hassleriana, Clemson advises supplemental water during dry periods, but timing and mature size depend on the plant and growing conditions.