Wild rose, spiny spider flower

Cleome aculeata, commonly known as Spider Flower, is an annual flowering plant belonging to the Cleomaceae family. Native to parts of South America, it is known for its tall, spiky inflorescences and distinctive appearance. Here's an informative description of this plant:

Description:

1. Plant Structure:

   • Size: Spider Flower can reach a height of 3 to 5 feet (90 to 150 cm).
   • Growth Form: It has an upright and branching growth habit.

2. Leaves:

   • Leaf Arrangement: The leaves are palmately compound, typically with five leaflets.
   • Texture: Leaves are green and may have a slightly rough texture.

3. Flowers:

   • Inflorescence: The flowers are arranged in elongated, spiky racemes, resembling a spider's legs.
   • Flower Structure: Each flower has four long, slender petals and prominent stamens, giving it a spidery appearance.
   • Flower Color: Spider Flowers come in various colors, including shades of pink, purple, and white.

4. Fruit:

   • Seed Pods: The plant produces long, narrow seed pods that resemble capsules.

Identification:

• Spiky Racemes: The elongated, spiky racemes of flowers are a distinctive feature.
• Compound Leaves: The palmately compound leaves with five leaflets are characteristic.

Ecological Role:

1. Habitat: Spider Flower is often found in open areas, along roadsides, and in disturbed habitats.
2. Pollinator Attraction: The flowers attract pollinators, including bees and butterflies.

Cultural Uses:

1. Ornamental Planting: Spider Flower is cultivated as an ornamental plant in gardens and landscapes for its unique and showy flowers.

Management:

1. Cultural Control:

   • Deadheading: Removing spent flowers can encourage continuous blooming.
   • Pruning: Pruning can help shape the plant and control its size.

2. Seed Collection: Harvesting seed pods before they split open can prevent self-seeding.

Note: While Spider Flower is valued for its ornamental qualities, it has the potential to self-seed and spread in favorable conditions.