Spider Flower
Cherry Queen Cleome is a tall, dramatic heirloom flower that brings vibrant presence to gardens from June through November across zones 2-11. This cultivar of Cleome hassleriana grows 36-60 inches tall with airy, spidery blooms that attract pollinators throughout summer and into fall. Thriving in full sun with minimal water once established, it reaches flowering in just 84 days from seed, making it one of the faster bloomers in its genus. The cherry-colored flowers emerge in succession on tall stems, creating a long-lasting display that deepens as the season progresses.
12-18 inches apart
Full Sun
Low
2-11
60in H x 18in W
Annual
High
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Cherry Queen produces flowers of remarkable depth and color intensity on plants that seem to float above the garden on thin, elegant stems. The blooms open sequentially along the spike, ensuring continuous color from early summer through the first frost, and the entire plant is so drought-tolerant and low-maintenance that it practically rewards neglect. Deer leave it untouched, bees and butterflies seek it out relentlessly, and it thrives in the hottest, sunniest corners where other flowers surrender.
Cherry Queen Cleome functions as a cut flower for fresh arrangements, where its tall stems and long vase life make it valuable for florists and home gardeners alike. The plant is also grown as a dramatic garden backdrop or focal point in mixed borders, particularly in cottage gardens and pollinator plantings where its airy texture complements heavier-flowered companions.
Sow seeds indoors 6-8 weeks before your last spring frost date. Keep the soil at 60-70°F and increase germination success by chilling the seed flat in the refrigerator for 2 weeks before sowing. Surface sow the seeds and press them in lightly; they require light to germinate. Expect sprouting in 5-30 days depending on conditions.
Transplant hardened-off seedlings outdoors after your last spring frost date. Space plants at least 2 inches apart to ensure adequate air circulation and prevent fungal issues.
Direct sow seeds 1-2 weeks before your last spring frost date, pressing them lightly into the soil surface since they need light to germinate.
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