SafePlants

Asian Spiderflower (Cleome viscosa)

The Asian spiderflower, scientifically known as Cleome viscosa, is an annual plant recognized for its distinctive appearance and reported presence in various regions.

Considerations for Pets

• Mentioned as a weed and an annual herb, it can grow up to 1.5 meters (approximately 5 feet).
• Leaves, stems, pods, and flowers are boiled for consumption
• It is also known as Stinging cleome

Considerations for Children

• Leaves, stems, pods, and flowers are boiled for consumption
• It is also known as Stinging cleome

Taxonomy and Nomenclature

• Scientific Name: Cleome viscosa L.
• Family: Cleomaceae (Spider Flower family)
• Synonyms: C. icosandra, Polanisia icosandra, P. viscosa

Common Names

• Asian spiderflower
• Yellow spider flower
• Tickweed
• Yellow cleome spider flower
• Wild Spider flower
• Stinging cleome
• Bagra (Hindi)
• Hulhul (Urdu)
• Naivela (Malayalam)

Distribution and Habitat

• The text suggests a possible origin in either Africa or Asia.
• It is noted to be distributed throughout the greater part of India.
• Found in secondary growth areas.

Ecological Role

• Cleome viscosa is described as non-native and invasive in some contexts.
• C. rutidosperma (likely a related species) is documented as a weed, particularly in Asia.

Morphological Characteristics

• It is an annual growing to 1.5 meters (5ft).
• The flowers are hermaphrodite (have both male and female organs).

Quirky Facts

• The flowers are noted to have an unpleasant, musky smell.
• Despite the smell, the plant is reportedly a favorite among hummingbirds.
• The entire plant, except the roots, are considered edible.

Interactions with Other Organisms

• It is a favorite among hummingbirds.

Further Information

• ARKive (mentioned for photos and facts)
• USDA hardiness zone
• Tierno's Medicinal Herbs Database
• Wikimedia Commons