Sheffield's Seed Company Page

Immerse yourself in the exquisite beauty of the Cleome hassleriana, commonly recognized as the Spider Flower or Spider Plant. Originating from South America and beloved since the 1800s, this stunning annual flower impresses with its robust growth, distinguished botanical features, and delicate fragrance. Fast-growing and robust, Spider Flowers can rise up to 6 feet from a stalwart taproot, branching extensively to match their height in width. Their alternate leaves are palmately compound, adorned with tiny stipules and glandular pubescence, resulting in a slightly sticky foliage exuding a unique, skunk-like aroma. Blossoming from early summer until winter's first frost, the Spider Flower’s dense, ever-lengthening terminal inflorescence showcases flowers in shades of white, pink, rose, or purple. Each flower showcases light green sepals, clawed petals, and elongated stamens crowned with yellow-orange anthers, resembling delicate spider legs – hence its name. These flowers attract a wide variety of pollinators, including hummingbirds, bees, butterflies, and even bats in tropical locations. Enjoy a sweet, musky, pungent, or spicy scent, depending on the variety. Spider Flowers make an exceptional addition to any garden, offering dramatic effects in mass planting, filling empty spaces in young plantings, or combined with perennials in mixed beds. Growing best in full sun and moist, well-drained soil, they remain tolerant to dry conditions. Avoid overwatering and overfertilizing, which can cause leggy growth. Adopt Spider Flower to discover a visually-arresting, fragrant, and dynamic garden plant.