cleome

Cleome: A Tall and Whimsical "Spider Flower" for Sunny Borders

Cleome (Cleome hassleriana), also known as the Spider Flower, is a unique and statuesque annual in the Cleomaceae family, available at our Mundelein nursery. Originally native to South America, these plants are loved for their large, airy flower heads and long, spindly stamens that give them a delicate, spider-like appearance. For gardeners in Libertyville looking to add a gentle vertical accent and a reliable floral presence to their back borders, cleome is a friendly choice. Its tall, upright habit and natural ability to thrive in the warm, sunny days of Lake County make it a steady performer for any garden where soft texture and a touch of vintage charm are the goals.

Performance in Northern Illinois Soil

This species is very adaptable and fits beautifully into the residential gardens of our region. While some tall flowers might need constant staking, cleome grows with a sturdy, woody stem that stands up well to the breezes in Mundelein. It is successful in managed garden beds where the soil is average to rich and well-drained. In Vernon Hills, these plants act as a dependable landscaping staple, providing a lush, flower-filled backdrop that stays vibrant from the heat of July all the way until the first frost of autumn.

Size, Spacing, and Growth Habit

Planning for the tall and airy way this plant grows ensures it looks its best as a back-of-the-border focal point.

• Mature Height: Depending on the variety, cleome typically reaches 3 to 5 feet tall, providing a wonderful vertical element.

• Mature Width: Individual plants span 18 to 24 inches wide, maintaining a dense, upright silhouette that branches out near the top.

• Growth Rate: This plant is commonly known for a fast growth rate, quickly reaching its impressive height as soon as the summer weather truly arrives in June.

• Foliage Habit: The leaves are palm-shaped and a rich green, providing a sturdy, textured backdrop for the delicate flower clusters.

• Spacing Requirements: To create a solid screen of color or a nice drift, space individual starts 18 to 24 inches apart. This distance is commonly used to achieve a balanced and happy-looking display.

Environmental Requirements

Knowing what cleome likes is a simple way to ensure it keeps blooming throughout the sunny months.

• Sun Exposure: Full sun is the primary requirement for the most flowers and the strongest stems. While it can handle a little bit of very light afternoon shade in Libertyville, placing it in a bright spot ensures it doesn't lean toward the light.

• Moisture Needs: Once established, this plant is commonly noted for its good drought tolerance. However, providing regular water during very dry weeks is a standard way to keep the foliage looking fresh.

• Temperature Tolerance: These are true heat-lovers. It is a practical strategy to wait until the summer warmth has settled in before planting, as they prefer warm soil and plenty of sunlight.

• Soil Chemistry: This species is commonly adaptable to many soil types, provided the ground allows for good drainage and isn't too soggy.

Landscape Characteristics

In our local gardens, this flowering plant provides a source of consistent interest and helpful garden support:

• Vertical Interest: Because of its height, cleome is a popular choice for adding a "back layer" to flower beds without the need for complex supports.

• Pollinator Friendly: The open, nectar-rich flowers are a favorite for butterflies, bees, and even hummingbirds, making it a cheerful addition to a nature-friendly garden in Mundelein.

• Cottage Garden Aesthetic: It is a pleasant choice for creating a relaxed, informal look that pairs beautifully with other old-fashioned favorites.

• No Deadheading Required: Most modern varieties are "self-cleaning" and will continue to bloom at the tips of the stems as they grow taller.

• Seed Pod Interest: After the flowers fade, the plant produces long, thin seed pods that add a unique structural element to the late-summer garden.

Planting and Maintenance Advice

To keep your plants healthy and blooming beautifully, follow these simple care steps:

• Site Preparation: It’s helpful to mix a little compost into your soil. In the heavy clay soils of our area, this is a practical way to help the drainage and provide the food these vigorous plants need.

• Watering Routine: Watering at the base of the plant is a good habit, ensuring the roots get deep hydration while keeping the stems dry.

• Fertilization: A balanced, water-soluble fertilizer used every few weeks is commonly helpful to sustain the fast growth and non-stop blooming.

• Mulching: Maintaining a light layer of mulch around the plants is a practical way to keep the roots cool and hold moisture during a July warm spell.

• Pest Management: These plants are commonly sturdy, though keeping an eye out for aphids in Vernon Hills during very dry spells is a good idea.

Reliable Companion Plants for our Area

To create a pleasant, multi-layered look, consider pairing your plants with other varieties from The Country Bumpkin:

• Planting Zinnias or Cosmos in front of cleome provides a lovely, layered color palette.

• Silver-leafed Dusty Miller or purple-leafed Sweet Potato Vine thrive in the same sunny conditions and provide a soft texture contrast.

• Lantana or Marigolds provide a nice rounded texture that fills in the space around the tall stalks.

• Taller grasses provide a soft, wispy background that looks great next to the structured habit of the spider flower.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is cleome deer resistant?

Yes, cleome is commonly noted for having excellent deer and rabbit resistance. The foliage has a slightly sticky texture and a unique scent that local wildlife in Libertyville generally avoid.

What colors can I find at the nursery?

We commonly have a beautiful range of soft shades, including crisp white, rosy pink, and lavender-purple.

Does it have thorns?

Some traditional varieties have small spines at the base of the leaves, though many modern cultivars are much smoother. It’s always a good idea to wear gloves when planting to keep your hands comfortable.

Visit The Country Bumpkin Garden Center

We are located at the corner of Gilmer Rd & Hawley St in Mundelein. Stop by to see the unique shapes and experience the airy beauty of cleome for your own garden. We are a local resource for gardeners across Libertyville, Mundelein, Vernon Hills, and the surrounding communities.

Call (847) 566-2176 or Send a Message to check current availability.