How to Grow White Cleome Gigantica Alba
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White Cleome Gigantica Alba
Cleome hassleriana 'Gigantica Alba'
flowerA tall annual flowering plant known for its dramatic pure white, fragrant flower clusters that bloom from summer through fall. The plant features distinctive long stamens and grows 4-5 feet tall, making it an excellent choice for tall borders, screens, or dramatic vertical interest in gardens. Also commonly called Spider Flower, it attracts pollinators and creates an ethereal, cottage garden aesthetic.
When should you plant White Cleome Gigantica Alba in your zone?
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Example White Cleome Gigantica Alba timeline · Pittsburgh, PA (Zone 6b)
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Plant White Cleome Gigantica Alba
Around Apr 17Near Pittsburgh's average last spring frost.
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Tend & protect
Late spring–summerWatering, feeding, and pest-watch reminders.
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First White Cleome Gigantica Alba blooms
Around Jun 26≈ 70 days after planting
Sample dates for Pittsburgh, PA. Sign up to get exact White Cleome Gigantica Alba dates for your own zip code.
Growing Conditions
Soil
Growing Zones
Find your zone →Thrives in zones 2-11 as an annual; self-seeds readily in warm climates (zones 8+)
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Get my White Cleome Gigantica Alba timeline →Growth Stages
Seedling
2-3 weeksTiny seedlings emerge with cotyledons and first true leaves appearing within 7-14 days
Keep soil consistently moist but not waterlogged; provide bright light; thin seedlings to proper spacing once they have 2-3 true leaves
Vegetative Growth
4-6 weeksPlant develops multiple stems, compound leaves, and grows rapidly upward; no flowers yet
Water moderately; stake or support plants in windy locations; pinch tips early for bushier growth if desired
Budding & Flowering
8-12 weeksTerminal flower spikes form at stem tips with distinctive long stamens and pure white blooms appearing in clusters
Continue regular watering; deadhead spent flowers to encourage continuous blooming; provide stakes for support as plant reaches 3-5 feet tall
Peak Bloom & Self-seeding
4-8 weeksPlant reaches full height with abundant white flower clusters blooming continuously; seed pods develop as flowers fade
Allow some flowers to set seed if you want self-seeding next year; collect seed pods when green and papery for guaranteed seed saving
Frost Decline & Senescence
1-2 weeksPlant performance declines after first frost; foliage yellows and flowering stops
In cold climates, remove plants after frost; in warm zones, allow to self-seed or pull plants and save seed pods
Companion Planting
Plan your garden →Plant with:
Avoid planting near:
Common Pests
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Spray with water to dislodge; use insecticidal soap or neem oil for heavy infestations; encourage beneficial insects like ladybugs
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Increase humidity and water foliage; use miticide or neem oil if severe; remove heavily infested leaves
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Yellow sticky traps; spray with insecticidal soap; neem oil applications every 7-10 days
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Hand-pick caterpillars; use Bacillus thuringiensis (Bt) spray; fine netting to prevent adult moths from laying eggs
Uses
Edible Flowers
CulinaryThe delicate white flowers are edible and can be used as a garnish for salads, desserts, and beverages, adding a mild peppery flavor and dramatic visual appeal. [source]
Cut Flowers & Arrangements
HouseholdThe tall, fragrant flower spikes are excellent for cutting and bring vertical drama to fresh flower arrangements and floral designs, lasting 7-10 days in water. [source]
Pollinator Attraction
WildlifeThe abundant flowers attract bees, butterflies, hummingbirds, and other pollinators throughout the growing season, making it an excellent choice for supporting beneficial insects in gardens. [source]
Dried Flower Arrangements
CraftThe tall spikes and seed pods dry well and can be used in dried arrangements, wreaths, and craft projects for long-lasting botanical display. [source]
Traditional Medicine
MedicinalCleome species have been used in traditional medicine systems, particularly in African and South American cultures, for various herbal preparations, though scientific validation remains limited. [source]
This is not medical advice. LizPlants is not a medical resource. Always consult a qualified healthcare professional before using plants medicinally.
Harvest Tips
Cleome is primarily grown for ornamental flowers and self-seeding rather than harvest. Cut flowers for arrangements before they fully open for longest vase life (7-10 days). To collect seeds, allow seed pods to mature and dry on the plant until papery (8-10 weeks after flowering); harvest pods when light tan, dry completely indoors, then extract seeds. In warm climates, allow some pods to mature on the plant for self-seeding next season.
Fun Facts
- 🌱 Cleome is also called 'Spider Flower' because the long, delicate stamens resemble spider legs, and the seed pods that follow look like tiny spiders dangling from the stems.
- 🌱 The plant is native to South America but has naturalized in warm regions worldwide and is a popular self-seeding annual in cottage gardens due to its prolific seed production.
- 🌱 Cleome produces fragrant flowers that attract moths and other nocturnal pollinators in addition to daytime insects, making it particularly valuable for evening gardens.
Gardening Terms
New to gardening? Learn about terms used in this guide:
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