SafePlants

Spiny Spiderflower (Cleome spinosa)

The Cleome spinosa, commonly known as spiny spiderflower, is an annual flowering plant appreciated for its unique spiky flower heads and appeal to pollinators.

Considerations for Pets

• The plant has spiny stems.

Considerations for Children

• The plant has spiny stems.
• At the base of each petiole, there is a pair of small spiny stipules.

Taxonomy and Nomenclature

• Scientific Name: Cleome spinosa Jacq.
• Family: Cleomaceae
• Order: Brassicales
• Synonyms: Cleome sandwicensis A. Gray, Cleome spinosa Sw. (illegitimate)
• Common Names: Spiny spiderflower, Spider legs, Spiny Cream Spider-flower, Violet queen

Morphology and Growth Habits

• The plant features long stamens, giving the flowers a spiky appearance.
• Flowers are pink, white, or purple and grow in spiky heads.
• Stems can grow to be 36-48 inches long and may be spiny.
• The stems are slightly hairy.
• Leaves are compound, with narrowly ovate, oblanceolate, or lanceolate leaflets.
• At the base of each petiole, there is a pair of small spiny stipules.

Distribution and Habitat

• Observed growing in a garden in England.
• Native to South Australia, where the Spiny Cream Spider-flower is considered Near Threatened.

Ecological Role

• Attracts hummingbirds and butterflies.
• Observed as a volunteer plant arising from dormant seeds in garden settings.

Interactions with Other Organisms

• Flower crab spiders (Diaea species) are known to prey on butterflies, flies, and beetles, grabbing them with their spiny front legs.

Quirky Facts

• The text mentions the plant is also known as "Drunk Butterfly Flower".