Spider Plant Cleome Seeds

Don’t be fooled by the common name “spider plant.” This flowering annual isn’t nearly as scary as the much maligned eight-legged garden companion. Also known as grandfather’s whiskers and spider legs, these quirky common names all refer to the long and thin stamens of the flowers that resemble an old man’s beard, arachnid legs or perhaps even a spider's web. But fear not, these unique flowers are more beautiful than they sound. 

Also known by its genus, cleome, this species of tender flowering plant has been cultivated since the 1800s and is native to South America. Spider plants develop a strong, central taproot upon which an herbaceous stalk grows, which can reach up to 2 meters tall. Provided with ample space, the plant will branch out and grow as wide as it is tall. In early summer, expect to see the tall spikes bloom with brightly coloured flowers. 

The stunning flowers do well attracting butterflies, bees and hummingbirds as their main pollinators. Consider the vigorous growth of the spider plant and use it as a back border in annual beds or for mass planting to fill open spaces. The striking spikes of blossoms make excellent additions to bouquets and floral arrangements.

GROWING INSTRUCTIONS

This unique wildflower is one of the best additions to any pollinator garden. The stunning purple flowers protrude from the tall upright stalk, deterring pests and critters, while attracting and nourishing native pollinator species.

Seeds can be started inside, but must first go through the process of stratification. Set seeds on the surface of moist soil inside plastic bags and place them in the refrigerator for two weeks. Remove the seeds from the fridge and plant into flats or pots six to eight weeks out from the last frost date. Move the seeds to a bright, warm location and place them on a heating mat to increase the success rate and speed up the process. Try to keep soil at 21-25 degrees for the best results. Harden them off for transplanting after the danger of frost has passed.

Sow directly outdoors into a well-worked garden bed around the time of the final frost date. Plant seeds, cover lightly, tamp them in and keep the bed moist. They should germinate in 10-14 days.

Maintain a wet and warm environment for young plants. Plant or thin seedlings to 15 cm apart. If left closer, the tall stalks, reaching up to 150 cm, may help support each other. Shelter rocky mountain bee plants from the wind and/or use stakes or trellises for support.

Rocky mountain bee plants prefer full sun. They adapt quickly to fair soil and don’t require fertilizer. Organic matter or compost incorporated into the soil will help developing plants get established. It is a very low maintenance plant once established and tolerates drought conditions well.

Flowers will peak in July and August. Plants die back completely at the first frost and drop seeds that will sprout in the spring. Future generations naturalize quickly, much to the appreciation of native wildlife. Rocky mountain bee plants will dramatically improve the activity and health of your local pollinator population. Grow some of this one of-a-kind native wildflower to invite busy summer bees and fuel up butterflies and hummingbirds for their long migration south. 

QUICK FACTS

- The young, tender shoots and leaves are good sources of vitamin A and calcium.  

- Rocky Mountain Bee Plant seeds will remain viable for 3 years if stored in a cool, dark place, ideally between 4 and 10⁰C. After that, the germination rate may start to go down.