Cleome houtteana aka Deepika

Cleome houtteana, or spider flower, belongs to the Cleomaceae family. This annual comes from South America, from Brazil to northern Argentina. Its native range includes Paraguay and Uruguay. It grows fast and forms a tall, upright plant. Garden plants reach about 3–6 feet [0.9–1.8 metres]. RHS gives a shorter upper height of about 5 feet [1.5 metres]. Spread reaches about 1.6–2 feet [0.5–0.6 metres]. Plants reach their full size within one year.

The dark green leaves feel sticky and have a scent. Lower and middle leaves are palmately compound, with five to seven leaflets. Fine hairs cover both sides of these leaves. Smaller, simple leaves grow near the stem tips. These may clasp the stem or lack a stalk. The hairy stems have a square cross section. Paired spines grow at the base of each leaf stalk.

Flowers form clusters at the stem tips from summer into fall. They come in pink, purple, or, less often, white. Each flower has four petals and six long stamens. The stamens reach about 0.25 feet [0.08 metres] long. Their yellow-orange anthers help give the blooms a spider-like look. The flowers have a strong, musky scent that some people dislike. Long, narrow seed capsules follow the blooms. Each capsule splits into two valves and holds many seeds.

Grow spider flower in a warm place with full sun. It also accepts some shade, according to NC State. Give it moist soil that drains well. RHS lists chalk, loam, and sand as suitable soils. It accepts acid, neutral, or alkaline soil. Plants tolerate heat, humid air, and drought. RHS rates it H2, so it cannot survive freezing. NC State lists USDA zones 10–11. Grow new plants from seed. Remove spent flowers to extend bloom and limit self-seeding.

Use this tall annual in borders, beds, or grouped plantings. It suits cottage gardens, meadows, and gardens grown for pollinators. The blooms also work as cut flowers. Bees, butterflies, moths, and hummingbirds visit the plants. Deer and rabbits tend to leave them alone. Care needs are low, but check young growth for aphids. Spider mites, flea beetles, and caterpillars may also cause trouble. RHS reports few disease problems; NC State lists rust and powdery mildew. NC State identifies it as non-toxic to cats, dogs, and horses.