Cleome: A victorian favourite for a modern garden

The Cleome flower, commonly known as the spider flower, is a striking addition to any garden with its tall, airy blooms and unique, spidery appearance. This annual plant, native to South America, has found a place in gardens worldwide, including the United Kingdom. With a rich history, practical uses in tropical garden designs, and specific care requirements, the Cleome flower is both a versatile and beautiful choice for gardeners.

History of Cleome in the UK

Cleome hassleriana, the most popular species in the UK, was introduced to British gardens in the 19th century. As British horticulturists and botanists explored South America, they brought back numerous plant species, including the Cleome. Its exotic appearance and robust growth made it a favorite among Victorian gardeners who were keen on showcasing unusual and colorful plants in their collections. Over time, Cleome has become a staple in both traditional and modern garden designs across the UK.

Uses in Tropical Gardens

Cleome is particularly valued in tropical garden designs due to its height, texture, and color. It can grow up to 5 feet tall, providing a vertical accent that adds depth and drama to garden beds. The flowers, which come in shades of pink, white, and purple, bloom from early summer until the first frost, ensuring a long-lasting display.

In tropical-themed gardens, Cleome pairs well with plants like cannas, dahlias, and ornamental grasses. Its ability to thrive in full sun and withstand dry conditions makes it an excellent choice for creating lush, vibrant landscapes that evoke the warmth and richness of tropical climates.

Best Varieties of Cleome

Cleome, known for its striking flowers and unique, airy structure, comes in various species and cultivars. These varieties offer different colors, sizes, and growing habits, making it easy to find the perfect fit for any garden. Here are some of the best varieties of Cleome to consider:

1. Cleome hassleriana ‘Senorita Rosalita’

• Description: Known for its compact growth and abundant pink-purple flowers, this variety is a favorite among gardeners.
• Features: It is thornless, doesn’t self-seed aggressively, and has good resistance to pests and diseases.
• Uses: Ideal for containers, borders, and mass plantings.

2. Cleome hassleriana ‘White Queen’

• Description: This variety produces pure white, fragrant flowers.
• Features: It can grow up to 4 feet tall and has a robust, upright habit.
• Uses: Excellent for adding height and elegance to garden beds and borders.

3. Cleome hassleriana ‘Violet Queen’

• Description: Featuring large, violet-purple blooms, ‘Violet Queen’ is a standout in any garden.
• Features: It reaches about 4 feet in height and blooms profusely from summer to fall.
• Uses: Perfect for mixed borders and as a focal point in flower beds.

4. Cleome hassleriana ‘Cherry Queen’

• Description: With its bright cherry-red flowers, this variety adds a bold splash of color.
• Features: Grows up to 4 feet tall and has a strong, bushy growth habit.
• Uses: Ideal for adding vibrant color to garden borders and flower beds.

5. Cleome serrulata (Rocky Mountain Bee Plant)

• Description: Native to North America, this species has pink to lavender flowers and is known for attracting pollinators.
• Features: It can grow up to 5 feet tall and is drought-tolerant.
• Uses: Great for wildflower gardens, naturalized areas, and pollinator gardens.

6. Cleome hassleriana ‘Sparkler Series’

• Description: This series includes various colors like white, rose, and lavender.
• Features: More compact and bushy than traditional Cleome, reaching about 3-4 feet tall.
• Uses: Suitable for containers, smaller garden spaces, and mixed plantings.

7. Cleome hassleriana ‘Helen Campbell’

• Description: Produces large, white, fragrant flowers.
• Features: Grows up to 5 feet tall with sturdy stems and abundant blooms.
• Uses: Excellent for moon gardens, borders, and as a striking backdrop in flower beds.

8. Cleome hassleriana ‘Colour Fountain Mix’

• Description: A mix of pink, white, and purple flowers.
• Features: These plants reach up to 4 feet tall and have a vigorous, upright growth habit.
• Uses: Ideal for adding a mix of colors to garden borders and large containers.

Each of these Cleome varieties brings something unique to the garden, from vibrant colors and fragrances to attracting beneficial pollinators. By selecting the right variety, gardeners can enjoy the beauty and versatility of Cleome in their landscapes.

How to Propagate Cleome

Propagating Cleome is straightforward, typically done through seeds.

Seed collection happens at the end of the growing season, from mature Cleome plants. The seed pods turn brown and split open when ready. Clean the seeds and let them dry for a few days. Sow the seeds indoors several weeks before the last frost date, using seed trays filled with a good quality seed-starting mix. Keep the soil moist and maintain a warm temperature. Seeds typically germinate in a couple of weeks. Once the seedlings have two sets of true leaves and the risk of frost has passed, they can be transplanted outdoors, spacing the plants appropriately.

Care for Cleome

Caring for Cleome is relatively easy, making it a favorite for both novice and experienced gardeners.

Cleome thrives in full sun, requiring plenty of direct sunlight daily. Well-draining soil is crucial. While Cleome can tolerate poor soil conditions, it prefers rich, loamy soil. Water regularly, especially during dry spells, but avoid waterlogging. Cleome is somewhat drought-tolerant once established. Fertilize with a balanced, slow-release fertilizer at the time of planting and again mid-season to promote vigorous growth and flowering.

Deadheading Cleome

Deadheading, or the removal of spent flowers, encourages Cleome to produce more blooms and prevents the plant from setting seed too early.

Identify spent blooms by looking for flowers that have wilted or faded. Using a pair of sharp pruning shears, cut off the flower stalk just above the first set of healthy leaves or side shoots. Regularly check and remove spent flowers throughout the growing season to keep the plant looking tidy and to encourage continuous blooming.

By following these guidelines, gardeners can enjoy a vibrant display of Cleome flowers from summer to fall, adding a touch of the exotic to their gardens. Whether used as a focal point in a tropical garden or as part of a mixed border, Cleome’s unique beauty and ease of care make it a delightful addition to any outdoor space.