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spreading spiderflower
Scientific Name: Cleome diffusa
Family: Capparaceae
Category: Dicot
Growth: Forb/herb
Duration: Annual
Other Names:
Cleome diffusa
Also known as Spreading Spiderflower.
Considerations for Pets
- Some species of Cleome, like Cleome aculeata, are referred to as "prickly spiderflower," suggesting the presence of thorns or spines.
Considerations for Children
- The plant spreads by reseeding itself, which may be relevant if children play in areas where it grows.
Taxonomy and Nomenclature
- Scientific Name: Cleome diffusa Banks ex DC.
- Family: Cleomaceae
- Synonyms/Related Species:
- Cleome aculeata L. (Prickly Spiderflower)
- Cleome lutea Hook. var. lutea (Yellow Spiderflower)
Distribution and Habitat
- Native Range: South America
- It's found in the Kanto Plain, North Carolina, and Southern U.S.
Ecological Role
- Cleome rutidosperma is mentioned as an eradicable species.
- Can be invasive, spreading by seeds.
Morphological Characteristics and Growth Habits
- Annual herb, up to 1 m tall, widely branched, erect or sometimes spreading.
- Subglabrous, pubescent, or villous.
- Alternate leaves are 3 (5) palmatisect.
- Taproot system.
- The plant spreads by reseeding.
- Mature height: 3-6 ft (90-180 cm).
- Spread: 12-24 in (30-60 cm).
- Seed capsules are ovate-oblong in shape.
- Spider-flower arrangement of the inflorescence.
Quirky Facts
- The common name "spider flower" refers to the curious spider-shaped flowers.
- It is often overlooked as a seedling in garden centers due to its nondescript, almost weedy, appearance.
Interactions with Other Organisms
- Can be a companion plant to spreading Petunias.
- Spider mites may be found on the plant.