About Spider Flower
A tall, dramatic annual with airy clusters of spidery flowers atop sturdy stems that can reach 1-1.5 meters. The delicate blooms feature long, whisker-like stamens that give the flower its 'spider' name, appearing in white, pink, purple, and bicolor combinations. Spider flower makes an architectural statement in garden borders and is beloved by butterflies and pollinators. Spider Flower belongs to the Cleomaceae family and originates from Southern South America (Argentina, Paraguay, Brazil); widely cultivated in tropical and subtropical gardens..
Spider flower is an underappreciated annual in Philippine gardens, though it thrives in the tropical heat. It is occasionally seen in botanical gardens and flower shows in the Philippines. Its tall, dramatic form makes it ideal for the back of mixed borders in larger gardens. Filipino butterfly gardeners appreciate it as a nectar source. Seeds can be sourced from imported seed packets at garden supply stores or online. Its self-seeding habit means one planting can provide flowers for years.
Also known as: Cleome, Spider Plant Flower.
Popular Varieties
- Cleome hassleriana 'Violet Queen' (deep purple-violet)
- Cleome hassleriana 'White Queen' (pure white)
- Cleome hassleriana 'Rose Queen' (soft pink)
- Cleome hassleriana 'Sparkler Mix' (dwarf, mixed colors — 60 cm tall)
How to Plant Spider Flower in the Philippines
Spider Flower can be propagated through seeds. The recommended method is direct sowing from seeds.
Propagation Steps
- Step 1: Scatter seeds on the surface of prepared garden soil or seedling trays — seeds need light to germinate.
- Step 2: Press gently into the soil but do not cover deeply.
- Step 3: Keep soil moist — germination occurs in 7-14 days.
- Step 4: Thin seedlings to 30-40 cm apart once they have 2-3 sets of true leaves.
- Step 5: Plants self-sow freely — expect volunteer seedlings in subsequent seasons.
Care Guide
Sunlight
Full sun (at least 6 hours direct sunlight for best flowering and sturdy stems). Position your spider flower where it receives the right amount of light for healthy growth in Philippine conditions.
Water
Water regularly during establishment, then moderately. Fairly drought-tolerant once established. Water 1-2 times per week. Adjust frequency during the Philippine rainy season when humidity is higher and soil stays moist longer.
Temperature & Humidity
Ideal temperature range: 25-35°C (grows well in Philippine heat; treat as a warm-season annual). Tolerates moderate to high humidity The warm, humid Philippine climate is well-suited for growing spider flower outdoors or indoors.
Fertilizer
Light feeder. Apply balanced fertilizer once a month during growing season. Over-fertilizing promotes foliage over flowers.
Pruning
Deadhead spent flowers to prolong blooming, or leave some to self-seed. Remove entire plant after it finishes its life cycle.
Toxicity & Safety
Non-toxic, though the stems and leaves have a strong, musky scent and may cause mild skin irritation in sensitive individuals. Leaves may have small thorns.
Common Problems & Solutions
Floppy or leaning stems
Cause: Insufficient sunlight or overcrowding
Solution: Plant in full sun and space 30-40 cm apart. Stake tall varieties if needed in exposed, windy locations.
Aphids on flower buds
Cause: Common pest attracted to soft new growth
Solution: Blast with water spray. Apply neem oil. Aphid infestations are usually mild and temporary.
Lower leaves yellowing and dropping
Cause: Natural aging — spider flower loses lower leaves as it grows taller
Solution: This is normal. Plant shorter companions at the base to hide bare lower stems.
Too many seedlings the following season
Cause: Prolific self-seeding
Solution: Remove seed pods before they split if you want to control spread. Otherwise, thin volunteer seedlings.
Frequently Asked Questions
How do you care for Spider Flower in the Philippines?
Spider Flower needs full sun (at least 6 hours direct sunlight for best flowering and sturdy stems). Water regularly during establishment, then moderately. fairly drought-tolerant once established. water 1-2 times per week.. Feed with light feeder. apply balanced fertilizer once a month during growing season. over-fertilizing promotes foliage over flowers.. The Philippine climate with temperatures of 25-35°C (grows well in Philippine heat; treat as a warm-season annual) works well for this plant.
How do you propagate Spider Flower?
The recommended method is direct sowing from seeds. Scatter seeds on the surface of prepared garden soil or seedling trays — seeds need light to germinate. Press gently into the soil but do not cover deeply.
Is Spider Flower toxic to pets or children?
Non-toxic, though the stems and leaves have a strong, musky scent and may cause mild skin irritation in sensitive individuals. Leaves may have small thorns.
Can Spider Flower grow in containers in the Philippines?
Spider Flower is best grown in the ground or very large containers. It needs ample root space to reach its potential. In smaller urban spaces, choose dwarf varieties when available.
What are common problems when growing Spider Flower?
Common issues include: Floppy or leaning stems (caused by insufficient sunlight or overcrowding — plant in full sun and space 30-40 cm apart. stake tall varieties if needed in exposed, windy locations); Aphids on flower buds (caused by common pest attracted to soft new growth — blast with water spray. apply neem oil. aphid infestations are usually mild and temporary); Lower leaves yellowing and dropping (caused by natural aging — spider flower loses lower leaves as it grows taller — this is normal. plant shorter companions at the base to hide bare lower stems).
Growing spider flower in Manila? Tag us @urbangoesgreen on TikTok and show us your garden!